
Class I fi/a. 6 

Book A^Lx. 

Copyright N° _ 

COPYRIGHT DEPOSm 



DAY BY DAY WITH THE MASTER 



DAY BY DAY WITH 
THE MASTER 

Scripture Readings with Prayers for the 
Use of Young People 

ROBERT CLUETT 




ASSOCIATION PRESS 

New York: 347 Madison Avenue 
1920 






Copyright, 1920, by 

The International Committee of 

Young Men's Christian Associations 



©CI.A604:J00 






"W© / 



INTRODUCTION 

Mr Cluett's former book, "Every Morning," was de- 
signed for use in family worship, and those who are ac- 
quainted with it know how admirably it is adapted to 
that purpose. The present volume is intended to aid 
young people in their individual devotions, and a glance 
over its pages will suffice to show its value. 

"When I was a child I spake as a child, I felt as a 
child, I thought as a child." But childhood ideas are out- 
grown and childhood ways are left behind. The con- 
sciousness of youth is a wider, deeper affair, and requires 
a different language. For this reason boys and girls of 
teen age often find it difficult to express what they think 
and feel. Especially is this true in spiritual matters. They 
have not acquired the vocabulary of religious thought and 
experience. They cannot utter the emotions and aspira- 
tions that arise in them; and consequently many fall away 
from the habits of piety formed in childhood. 

This book meets the needs of youth at that particu- 
lar point. The passages selected from the gospels will 
bring before them impressive scenes and instructive inci- 
dents from the life of Jesus, and familiarize them with the 
great sayings of the Master. The prayers that follow 
will not only charm them into a worshipful mood, but 
will also furnish them a simple speech in which that mood 
may utter itself; and, better still, will help them to de- 
velop a devout dialect of their own. It is hoped that the 
work may gain wide circulation, and it is certain that the 
use of it will be richly rewarded. 

David Hugh Jones 



FOREWORD 

THIS book has been prepared for young people. The 
Scripture readings embrace the life of Jesus, from 
His birth to His ascension. The purpose of each 
introduction is to increase the interest in the portion of 
Scripture that follows. The short prayers are not intended 
to take the place of a young person's own prayers, but 
rather to supplement them. Each prayer is related to the 
Scripture lesson it follows, with a view to adding to the 
impression made upon the mind by God's word. I pray 
that those who make use of this little volume may find 
it an aid to devotion, and that it may increase their love 
for the Bible. 

Robert Cluett. 



DAY BY DAY WITH THE MASTER 



SUNDAY 



JESUS AND THE WISE MEN 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS began his earthly life as a little babe, just as 
each one of us began it. His birthplace was a 
manger, but God looked down and saw the little 
babe, and He sent a star to guide the wise men to where 
Jesus was. When they found Him they gave Him wonder- 
ful gifts, and this was the first Christmas day, and these 
were the first Christmas presents. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOW when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in 
the days of Herod the king, behold, there came 
wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? 
for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to 
worship him. . . . 

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, 
the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, 
till it came and stood over where the young child was. 

When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding 
great joy. 

And when they were come into the house, they saw the 
young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and 
worshipped him: and when they had opened their treas- 
ures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, 
and myrrh.— Matt. 2: 1, 2, 9-11. 



[2] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, that Jesus was once a 
little babe, and that Thou didst send Him from 
heaven to earth because of Thy great love for us. 
Help me to take Him as my example, and may I 
try to follow Him by endeavoring to do the things He 
would have me do. Be near me, Lord, whenever I am 
tempted to do wrong, that I may always choose the right. 
I ask for Thy blessing upon all those who are dear to me. 
For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[31 



MONDAY 



JESUS AND THE SHEPHERDS 

INTRODUCTION 

THERE never was such an important event as the 
birth of Jesus. It is not strange, therefore, that 
God sent an angel to tell the shepherds, who were 
watching their flocks by night, that He had been born, 
and where they might find Him. What a wonderful song 
that must have been that the angels sang! No wonder 
the shepherds made haste to go and find Jesus. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND there were in the same country shepherds abiding 
in the field, keeping watch over their flock bynight. 
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, 
and the glory of the Lord shone round about them : and 
they were sore afraid. 

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, 
I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all 
people. 

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a 
Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe 
wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of 
the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good 
will toward men. — Luke 2: 8-14. 



[4] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

OMY Saviour, I cannot hasten, like the shepherds, 
to worship at Thy cradle, but I can bow at Thy 
footstool and join the song of the angels, Glory 
to God in the highest. My heavenly Father, be pleased 
to accept the worship that I offer Thee, and may I, like 
the shepherds, want to behold Jesus, and to abide in His 
presence. I am grateful for all the joy Thou hast put 
into my life. I thank Thee for friends and companions, 
and for my home and for all the blessings I receive at Thy 
hands each day. Help me to make the right use of these, 
gifts that I may glorify Thee. Hear my prayer, for 
Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[5] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS IN THE TEMPLE 

INTRODUCTION 

AS a little babe Jesus was taken to the temple to be 
consecrated to God and to His service. Simeon, 
an aged and devout worshiper, was already in the 
temple, and on beholding Jesus, he received Him in his 
arms, and gave thanks to God for this wonderful gift of a 
Saviour* 

SCRIPTURE 

AND, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose 
name was Simeon; and the same man was just and 
devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and 
the Holy Ghost was upon him. 

And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that 
he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's 
Christ. 

And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when 
the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after 
the custom of the law, 

Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and 
said, 

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, 
according to thy word: 

For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy 
people Israel. — Luke 2 : 25-32. 



[6] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, O Lord, that Simeon was able to see 
in the infant Redeemer the salvation of the world. 
May I be able to see in Jesus Christ the light of the 
world, and may He so shine in my heart that His light and 
love shall be reflected in my daily life. I thank Thee for 
Thy constant care, for all that Thou hast provided for my 
welfare and comfort. I pray that I may be obedient to 
Thee in all things, and that I may not let any day pass 
without my trying to do some good. In Jesus' name. 
Amen. 



[7] 



WEDNESDAY 



JESUS AS A LITTLE BOY 
INTRODUCTION 

WHEN a boy of twelve, Jesus was again taken to the 
temple, and He must have wondered at all 
that He saw there and in the city. He was so 
interested that He gave no thought to returning home. 
He was found listening to the teachers and asking them 
questions. He seemed surprised that His parents should 
not know where to find Him, as His answer to His mother 
indicated. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOW his parents went to Jerusalem every year at 
the feast of the passover. 

And when he was twelve years old, they went 
up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. 

And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, 
the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph 
and his mother knew not of it. 

But they, supposing him to have been in the company, 
went a day's journey; and they sought him among their 
kinsfolk and acquaintance. 

And when they found him not, they turned back again 
to Jerusalem, seeking him. 

^ And it came to pass, that after three days they found 
him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, 
both hearing them, and asking them questions. 

And all that heard him were astonished at his under- 
standing and answers. 

[8] 



WEDNESDAY 



And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his 
mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with 
us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. 

And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? 
wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? 

—Luke 2:41-49. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, as Jesus honored Thee in His 
boyhood, so may I try to love and serve Thee in 
my early life. Give me grace to be about my 
heavenly Father's business at home, at school, or wher- 
ever I may be. Help me to remember Thy word and to 
treasure it. I ask for Thy blessing upon the poor and 
needy, and upon all who are suffering from illness or sorrow. 
Deliver me from unkind thoughts or words, and help me 
to be considerate of the comfort and feelings of all with 
whom I come in contact. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[9] 



THURSDAY 



JESUS BAPTIZED 
INTRODUCTION 

THOUGH Jesus was the Son of God, He was baptized, 
as His followers are, and as He prayed heaven was 
opened, and the voice of God was heard, attesting 
to the Sonship of Jesus. The prayer of the Saviour was 
answered, as all true prayer to God is answered. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND as the people were in expectation, and all men 
mused in their hearts of John, whether he were 
the Christ, or not; 
John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize 
you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the 
latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he 
shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire. . . . 
Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass 
that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven 
was opened, 

And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like 
a dove upon him; and a voice came from heaven, which 
said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. 

—Luke 3: 15-22. 



[10] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, I would like to live so near 
Thee that I shall hear when Thou dost speak to 
me. When Thou dost speak to me in Thy word, 
and in the still, small voice of conscience, help me to 
give a listening ear. I pray that Thou wilt forgive all that 
Thou dost behold in me that is unworthy of one who is 
trying to serve Thee. When I meet with difficulties or 
disappointments may I look to Thee for help and 
strength, knowing that Thou dost love me. Hear my 
prayer, Lord, in the name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. 
Amen. 



[11] 



FRIDAY 



WHAT SEEK YE? 
INTRODUCTION 

TWO days after His baptism, Jesus is seen passing 
where John and two of his followers were standing. 
The two disciples were John and Andrew, and what 
they had learned about Jesus made them anxious to know 
more concerning Him. They asked Jesus where He lived, 
and they had the joy of being His guests for a day. 

SCRIPTURE 

AGAIN the next day after John stood, and two of his 
disciples; 

And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, 
Behold the Lamb of God! 

And the two disciples heard him speak, and they 
followed Jesus. 

Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith 
unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, 
(which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where 
dwellest thou? 

He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and 
saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it 
was about the tenth hour. 

One of the two which heard John speak, and followed 
him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 

He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto 
him, We have found the Messias, which is, being inter- 
preted, the Christ. 

[12] 



FRIDAY 



And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld 
him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt 
be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. 

—John 1:35^2. 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, for this question the two 
disciples asked Jesus, Where dwellest Thou? I know 
that Jesus dwells with Thee in heaven, and that He 
prayed that His followers might dwell there with Him. 
I rejoice that I may have the Saviour abiding with me 
here, and that I may have fellowship with Him. May I 
hear, when He asks me what I am seeking, and wilt 
Thou forbid that I should seek things that He would not 
have me seek. Help me to seek first the kingdom of 
God, and His righteousness. For the sake of Jesus 
Christ, my Saviour. AmenJ 



[13] 



SATURDAY 



JESUS TEMPTED 

INTRODUCTION 

THAT Jesus was tempted in all points like as we 
are, seems strange unless we remember that He was 
human as well as divine. That He might know 
what it means for us to fight Satan, it seemed needful 
that Jesus should suffer this conflict with the devil, that 
He might show us how to overcome. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness 
to be tempted of the devil. 

And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights 
he was afterward an hungred. 

And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be 
the Son of God, command that these stones be made 
bread. 

But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not 
live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth 
out of the mouth of God. 

Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and 
setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 

And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast 
thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels 
charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear 
thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a 
stone. 

Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not 
tempt the Lord thy God. 

[H] 



SATURDAY 



Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high 
mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the 
world, and the glory of them; 

And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if 
thou wilt fall down and worship me. 

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for 
it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and 
him only shalt thou serve. — Matt. 4 : 1-10. 

PRAYER 

I OFFER Thee grateful praise, my Father, that we 
have the promise that we shall not be tempted above 
that we are able to bear. Thou dost always provide 
a way of escape. Teach me to shun the places where evil 
lies in wait, and help me to overcome temptations that 
cannot be avoided. In all places and in all things may I 
be more than conqueror through Him that loves me. 
Amen. 



[151 



SUNDAY 



JESUS CHOOSES TWO DISCIPLES 
INTRODUCTION 

WE now come to the first year of the ministry of 
Jesus. Our Lord came to preach glad tidings, 
and also to train men who should carry on the 
work after Him. His first two disciples were John and 
Andrew, who, when Jesus called them, left all to follow 
Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AGAIN the next day after John stood, and two of 
his disciples; 

And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, 
Behold the Lamb of God! 

And the two disciples heard him speak, and they 
followed Jesus. 

Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith 
unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, 
(which is to say being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest 
thou? 

He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and 
saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it 
was about the tenth hour. 

One of the two which heard John speak, and followed 
him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 

He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto 
him, We have found the Messias, which is, being inter- 
preted, the Christ. 

And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld 
[16] 



SUNDAY 



him, he said, Thou art Simon, the son of Jona: thou shalt 
be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone. 

—John 1:35-42. 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, that the footsteps of 
the first two disciples were heard by Jesus as they 
followed Him, and that He turned and asked, What 
seek ye? What a gracious privilege was theirs, to be 
invited to go with Jesus, and to be His guests! How 
glad I am, O Lord, that Jesus has bidden me to follow 
Him, and I praise Thee for the joy His companionship has 
given me. I beseech Thee, grant that my Saviour may 
always be a welcome guest in my heart, and that He may 
abide with me unto the end. For His sake. Amen. 



[17] 



MONDAY 



JESUS CLEANSES THE TEMPLE 
INTRODUCTION 

THE temple at Jerusalem was regarded as a religious 
center, and it was now the time for the observance 
of the passover feast. Those who sold doves and 
cattle and those who exchanged money had desecrated the 
house of God by making it a place of barter. Jesus 
drives them forth. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went 
up to Jerusalem, 

And found in the temple those that sold oxen and 
sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: 

And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he 
drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the 
oxen; and poured out the changers' money and overthrew 
the tables; 

And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things 
hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchan- 
dise. 

And his disciples remembered that it was written, The 
zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. — John 2: 13-17. 



[18] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

HELP me to love Thy house, Lord, and to rever- 
ence the place where Thou dost dwell. When I 
go to church wilt Thou go with me, and keep me 
from distracting thoughts. I would realize the sacredness 
of Thy house, and allow nothing to enter it that shall be 
displeasing to Thee. I ask this in the name of Jesus 
Christ, my Saviour. Amen. 



[19] 



TUESDAY 



THE FIRST MIRACLE 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS and five of His disciples were invited to a 
wedding, and we may be sure they accepted the 
invitation gladly. On such occasions innocent 
pleasures were indulged in, and there would be feasting 
and music and singing. We seldom think of Jesus as 
having a part in our social affairs, but He is always ready 
to share with us our joys as well as our sorrows. He chose 
a wedding to perform His first miracle. 



A 



SCRIPTURE 

ND the third day there was a marriage in Cana of 
Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there. 
And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the 
marriage. 

And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith 
unto him, They have no wine. 

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with 
thee? mine hour is not yet come. 

His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he 
saith unto you do it. 

And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after 
the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two 
or three firkins apiece. 

Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. 
And they filled them up to the brim. 

And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto 
the governor of the feast. And they bare it. 
[20] 



TUESDAY 



When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that 
was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the 
servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the 
feast called the bridegroom, 

And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth 
set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then 
that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine 
until now. 

This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, 
and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed 
on him. — John 2: 1-11. 

PRAYER 

I COME to thee, my Father, in the name of Jesus 
Christ, my Saviour. I thank Thee for the assurance 
that Jesus is interested in the affairs of our everyday 
life, and that it is possible to have His presence, not only 
on religious occasions, but also in our pleasures. I pray 
that I may never do anything upon which I cannot ask 
His blessing, and that I may never go anywhere where I 
cannot be sure of His presence. I ask these things in His 
name. Amen. 



[21] 



WEDNESDAY 



THE NOBLEMAN'S SON HEALED 

INTRODUCTION 

A NOBLEMAN, a high court official, had heard of 
Jesus and of the wonderful works He performed. 
His heart was deeply stirred over the illness of his 
little boy. He seeks Jesus and asks Him to come and heal 
his little son. Our Lord immediately quieted his fears 
by telling him that his son lived. The nobleman believed 
Jesus, and his faith was rewarded by the recovery of the 
little boy. 

SCRIPTURE 

SO Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he 
made the water wine. And there was a certain 
nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. 

When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judaea into 
Galilee, he went unto him, and besought him that he would 
come down, and heal his son: for he was at the point of 
death. 

Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and 
wonders, ye will not believe. 

The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my 
child die. 

Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And 
the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto 
him, and he went his way. 

And as he was now going down, his servants met him, 
and told him, saying, Thy son liveth. 

Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to 



WEDNESDAY 



amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the 
seventh hour the fever left him. 

So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the 
which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself 
believed, and his whole house. 

This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when 
he was come out of Judsea into Galilee. — John 4 : 46-54. 

PRAYER 

HELP me to approach Thee with a thankful heart, 
O Lord. Thou hast given me the privilege of 
coming into Thy presence, and I would draw near 
with faith, believing that not one of Thy promises can 
fail. As the faith of the nobleman was rewarded by the 
recovery of his son, so Thou dost ever reward the faith of 
those who put their trust in Thee. Help me to realize 
that I have a loving Saviour who is always moved with 
compassion in the time of sore need. I ask this in His 
name. Amen. 



[23] 



THURSDAY 

JESUS AT THE POOL OF BETHESDA 
INTRODUCTION 

A POOR cripple who had suffered for many years 
lay near the edge of the pool, hoping each day that 
someone would offer him the needed aid to enter 
when the water was troubled, but he waited in vain 
When Jesus saw him, He was moved with pity and healed 
him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AFTER this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus 
went up to Jerusalem. 

Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a 
pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, 
having five porches. 

In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of 
blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. 

For an angel went down at a certain season into the 
pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after 
the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of 
whatsoever disease he had. 

And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity 
thirty and eight years. 

When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been 
now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou 
be made whole? 

The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, 
when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but 
while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. 
[24] 



THURSDAY 



Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. 

And immediately the man was made whole, and took 
up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the 
sabbath. — John 5 : 1-9. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, teach me from what I have 
just read, what wonders may be wrought in my 
life if I will just take Jesus at His word. Without 
Thee I am helpless and without strength, but if I will 
listen to Thy word and obey it, then I can do all things 
through Christ which strengthened me. I give myself 
anew to Thee, praying, Be Thou my strength and my 
salvation. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[25] 



FRIDAY 



GOD'S GREAT LOVE 
INTRODUCTION 

THE cross was already before the eyes of Jesus. As 
a look at the brazen serpent brought healing to the 
stricken ones in the wilderness, so does the cross 
of Christ bring healing and life to those who look to it 
for salvation. It is not strange that in this Scripture 
God's great love is so closely associated with the cross, for 
it was there that it found its greatest manifestation. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, 
even so must the Son of man be lifted up : 
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish 
but have eternal life. 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not 
perish, but have everlasting life. 

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn 

the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that 

believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not 

believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into 
the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, 
because their deeds were evil. 

For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither 
cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 
[26] 



FRIDAY 



But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his 
deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in 
God.— John 3: 14-21. 

PRAYER 

O LOVING Father, may I have a better under- 
standing of the meaning of the cross upon which 
my Saviour suffered and died. Give me, I pray 
Thee, a new vision of Thy wondrous love in giving Thine 
only begotten Son, that whosoever belie veth in Him should 
not perish, but have eternal life. When I think of this 
wonderful expression of Thy love, and of what Jesus 
endured for me, may I be willing to make any sacrifice 
for Him, and may I love and serve Thee with all my 
heart. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[M] 



SATURDAY 



FOUR FISHERMEN CALLED 
INTRODUCTION 

PETER and Andrew were just about to begin their 
day's work, for they were casting their first net. 
When Jesus bid them follow Him, they immediately 
forsook their nets to obey Him. A little further away 
Jesus found James and John in their father's boat, busy 
mending their nets. Jesus called them, and they at once 
left their father and the nets, and followed Jesus. 



A 



SCRIPTURE 

ND Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two 
brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his 
brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were 
fishers. 

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make 
you fishers of men. 

And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. 

And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, 

James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship 

with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he 

called them. 

And they immediately left the ship and their father, 
and followed him. 

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their 

synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and 

healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease 

among the people. 

And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they 

[28] 



SATURDAY 



brought nto him all sick people that were taken with 
divers diseases and torments, and those which were pos- 
sessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and 
those that had the palsy; and he healed them. — Matt. 
4: 18-24. 

PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, help me to remember what 
I have just read. I thank Thee that Thou dost 
seek and find followers. Teach me prompt 
obedience when Thou dost call me to any service. No 
matter how busy I may be, help me, like the fishermen, 
to respond at once. May I remember that Thou hast 
chosen me as a disciple, and that Thou hast a work for 
me to do. May Thy grace enable me to do it faithfully 
and well. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[29] 



SUNDAY 



JESUS IN THE SYNAGOGUE 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS returned to His home town, and this may have 
been the first time that He taught publicly there. 
He received from an attendant a roll containing a 
selection from the prophets for that day. He told His 
hearers that this Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in 
Him, and they marvelled that He spoke so graciously. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he came to Nazareth, where he had been 
brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into 
the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up 
for to read. 

And there was delivered unto him the book of the 
prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, 
he found the place where it was written, 

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath 
anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath 
sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance 
to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to 
set at liberty them that are bruised, 

To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. 
And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the 
minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that 
were in the synagogue were fastened on him. 

And he began to say unto them, This day is this scrip- 
ture fulfilled in your ears. 

[30] 



SUNDAY 



And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious 
words which proceeded out of his mouth, And they said, 
Is not this Joseph's son? — Luke 4: 16-22. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee that Thou dost 
always hear prayer, and that Thy promises never 
fail. Thy goodness toward me is constant, and 
all the blessings I enjoy come from Thy bountiful hand. 
As Jesus made it His custom to attend public worship on 
the Sabbath, so may I ever make it a rule to be in my 
place in church each Sunday, that I may worship Thee in 
Thy house. I thank Thee that Thy word, spoken through 
Thy prophets of old, was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, my 
Saviour. Amen. 



[31] 



MONDAY 



THE MIRACULOUS DRAUGHT OF 
FISHES 

INTRODUCTION 

THE four fishermen, Simon Peter, Andrew, James, 
and John, had spent the night fishing, without suc- 
cess. In the morning as they were washing their 
nets, Jesus entered Peter's boat and asked him to row out 
a little from the shore, that He might teach the multitude 
that thronged Him. After finishing His teaching, Jesus 
told Peter to go into deeper water and let down the net. 
Peter's faith was large enough to lead him to obey, and 
now the catch was so great that the net began at once 
to break. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon 
2~\^ him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake 
of Gennesaret, 

And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fisher- 
men were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 

And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, 
and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the 
land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of 
the ship. 

Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, 
Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a 
draught. 

And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have 
toiled all the night, and have taken nothing : nevertheless 
at thy word I will let down the net. 
[32] 



MONDAY 



And when they had this done, they inclosed a great 
multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 

And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in 
the other ship, that they should come and help them. 
And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they 
began to sink. 

When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, 
saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 

For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at 
the draught of the fishes which they had taken: 

And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, 
which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto 
Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. 

—Luke 5:1-10. 

PRAYER 

TRULY, O Lord, Thou art mindful of Thy followers, 
whether adversity or prosperity attends them. I 
thank Thee for this great miracle that Jesus per- 
formed for the tired and discouraged fishermen. Teach 
me that in all my undertakings Jesus is looking on, and 
that if I will obediently follow His word, I may be sure 
that His promises will not fail, and that His reward shall 
be certain. In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[33] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS AND THE UNCLEAN SPIRIT 
INTRODUCTION 

WE again find Jesus teaching in the synagogue on the 
Sabbath. A man was there who was under the 
influence of an evil spirit. At the command of 
Jesus, the evil spirit departed. It is not strange that those 
present were astonished, and noted that the teaching of 
Jesus was unlike the teaching of the scribes, and that He 
spoke with the authority of God. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND they went into Capernaum; and straightway on 
the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and 
taught. 
And they were astonished at his doctrine : for he taught 
them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. 

And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean 
spirit; and he cried out, 

Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, 
thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I 
know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. 

And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and 
come out of him. 

And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried 
with a loud voice, he came out of him. 

And they were all amazed, insomuch that they ques- 
tioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? 
what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth 
he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him. 

—Mark 1:21-27, 
[34] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

I BOW before Thee, my heavenly Father, in the name 
of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. I pray daily to be 
delivered from evil. In my own strength I cannot 
overcome it, but by Thy help I can resist the evil one and 
gain the victory. I beseech Thee, O Lord, so to fill my 
life with good thoughts and good deeds, that there shall 
be no room for evil. May I overcome evil with good. 
For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[35] 



WEDNESDAY 



THE GREAT PHYSICIAN 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER leaving the synagogue on the Sabbath, Jesus 
and three of His disciples went to the home of 
Peter, where the mother of Peter's wife lay ill with a 
fever. Jesus, taking her by the hand, raised her up, and 
she was immediately healed. Later in the day many 
suffering ones were brought to Jesus, and He healed them. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND forthwith, when they were come out of the 
synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon 
and Andrew, with James and John. 

But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon 
they tell him of her. 

And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her 
up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered 
unto them. 

And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto 
him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed 
with devils. 

And all the city was gathered together at the door. 

And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, 
and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to 
speak, because they knew him. — Mark 1 : 29-34. 



[36] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, for the tenderness of Jesus, 
and for the blessings that attend His presence in the 
home. Help me to try to imitate Him by showing 
sympathy for those who suffer. May my feet be swift 
on errands of mercy and love, and may my attitude toward 
those at home, and beyond it, show I am indeed a follower 
of the Master. In His name I ask this. Amen. 



[37] 



THURSDAY 



THE LEPER HEALED 
INTRODUCTION 

A MAN with leprosy came beseeching Jesus to heal 
him. He was in dead earnest, for he was suffering 
from a disease that was regarded as almost incur- 
able, and that separated him from his friends. He does 
not seem to question the power of Jesus to heal him, but 
he is not sure that that power will be exercised in his 
behalf. Jesus immediately touched him and healed him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and 
kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou 
wilt, thou canst make me clean. 
And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, 
and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. 
And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy 
departed from him, and he was cleansed. 

And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him 
away; 

And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: 
but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy 
cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a 
testimony unto them. 

But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to 
blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no 
more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert 
places; and they came to him from every quarter. 

—Mark 1:40-45. 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

I COME to Thee, my heavenly Father, with thanks- 
giving in my heart and upon my lips for all Thy 
mercies toward me. I thank Thee for a Saviour who 
is always touched with a feeling of compassion for all 
those who seek His help. As the leper came to Jesus for 
cleansing, so do I come, beseeching Thee to cleanse me 
from all sin. May I hear the voice of Jesus saying, I will, 
be thou clean. Help me to remember that it is the pure 
in heart who see God and enjoy His presence. In Jesus' 
name. Amen. 



[39] 



FRIDAY 



JESUS CALLS MATTHEW 
INTRODUCTION 

AGAIN we find Jesus in the home. This time it is 
Matthew's. Jesus had called him, and he had left 
his place as tax gatherer to follow the Master. 
Matthew made a great feast, and Jesus and His disciples 
were there, and also many publicans. Jesus made 
answer to those who criticized Him for sitting at the 
table with publicans. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, 
named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: 
and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, 
and followed him. 

And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, 
behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down 
with him and his disciples. 

And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his 
disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and 
sinners? 

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They 
that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. 

But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have 
mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the 
righteous, but sinners to repentance. — Matt. 9: 9-13. 



[40] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, teach me the lesson that I 
should learn from what I have just read. Make 
it very real to me that Jesus has called me to be a 
disciple. I would be as ready to follow the Saviour as 
Matthew was, even though it may sometimes mean self- 
denial and sacrifice. May I have grace to follow my 
Lord and Master in the small things of my everyday life, 
and may I have the joy of feeling that Jesus is always near 
me. In His name. Amen. 



[41] 



SATURDAY 



HEALING OF THE PALSIED MAN 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS returned to Capernaum. The people soon 
heard of His arrival, and the house was filled with 
those who desired to hear Him. A man with palsy 
was brought on a bed by four friends. They could not 
get into the crowded house, so they carried the man up an 
outside stairway to the roof, where they broke up the 
tiling and let the man down through the opening to where 
Jesus stood. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND straightway many were gathered together, inso- 
much that there was no room to receive them, 
no, not so much as about the door : and he preached 
the word unto them. 

And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the 
palsy, which was borne of four. 

And when they could not come nigh unto him for the 
press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when 
they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the 
sick of the palsy lay. 

When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the 
palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. 

But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, 
and reasoning in their hearts, 

Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can 
forgive sins but God only? 
And immediately, when Jesus perceived in his spirit 
[42] 



SATURDAY 



that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, 
Why reason ye these things in your hearts? 

Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy 
sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise and take up thy 
bed, and walk? 

But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power 
on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) 

I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy 
way into thine house. 

And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went 
forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, 
and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. 

—Mark 2:2-12. 

PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, that this sufferer with 
the palsy had friends who carried him to Jesus for 
healing, and that they did not allow any obstacle to 
prevent them from placing him at the Saviour's feet. 
May I learn from this that I may come to Thee in behalf 
of others who need Jesus. Help me not only to pray for 
them, but also to do all that I can to aid them in finding 
the Saviour. For His sake. Amen. 



[43] 



SUNDAY 



JESUS IN THE CORNFIELD 
INTRODUCTION 

IT is the Sabbath, and on that day the Jewish law per- 
mitted a walk of not more than a mile. The path of 
Jesus and His disciples led through a cornfield. They 
are criticised by the Pharisees for plucking and eating 
the ears of corn. Jesus shows them that God made 
the Sabbath for man, and for his happiness and welfare. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND it came to pass, that he went through the corn 
fields on the sabbath day; and his disciples began, 
as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. 
And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they 
on the sabbath day that which is not lawful? 

And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David 
did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they 
that were with him? 

How he went into the house of God in the days of 
Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shew-bread, 
which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave 
also to them which were with him? 

And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, 
and not man for the sabbath: 
Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. 

—Mark 2: 23-28. 



[44] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, O God, that Thou hast made the 
Sabbath and hallowed it. In trying to observe it, 
help me to take the Saviour as my example, and may 
I find joy in worship and praise. If I am tempted to do 
things on Sunday that I believe will be displeasing to Thee, 
make me strong enough to refrain from doing them. 
May this Sabbath day prepare me to perform my duties 
faithfully in the coming week. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[«] 



MONDAY 



THE MULTITUDE FED 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS was surrounded by a great company of pilgrims 
journeying to Jerusalem to attend the passover feast. 
In beholding them, He saw their need of food and 
rest. He told His disciples to bid the multitude to be 
seated on the grass, and then, with five barley cakes and 
two small fishes belonging to a lad, the Lord provided 
food for that great throng. 

SCRIPTURE 

WHEN Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great 
company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, 
Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat? 
And this he said to prove him : for he himself knew what 
he would do. 

Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of 
bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them 
may take a little. 

One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, 
saith unto him, 

There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and 
two small fishes: but what are they among so many? 

And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there 
was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in 
number about five thousand. 

And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given 
thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples 
[46] 



MONDAY 



to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as 
much as they would. 

When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, 
Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be 
lost. 

Therefore they gathered them together, and filled 
twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley 
loaves, which remained over and above unto them that 
had eaten. — John 6 : 5-13. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, what I possess may seem very 
small in my sight, but in Thy sight, and in Thy 
hands, it may have large possibilities for service. 
If Jesus could use what the little boy had to feed so large 
a number, surely I can trust Him to take what I have to 
offer, and make it a blessing to many. My Lord and 
Master, I pray Thee, take all that I have, and bless it 
and use it, and the glory shall be Thine. Amen. 



[47] 



TUESDAY 



THE HELPLESS HAND 
INTRODUCTION 

AS Jesus taught in the synagogue on the Sabbath, He 
saw a man with a withered hand. The Jews 
present watched Jesus, to see if He would heal on 
the Sabbath, that they might accuse Him. Jesus bade the 
man stretch forth his hand, and the man obeyed, and he 
was healed. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he entered again into the synagogue; and there 
was a man there which had a withered hand. 
And they watched him, whether he would heal 
him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him. 

And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, 
Stand forth. 

And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the 
sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But 
they held their peace. 

And when he had looked round about on them with 
anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he 
saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he 
stretched it out : and his hand was restored whole as the 
other. 

And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took 
counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might 
destroy him. — Mark 3: 1-6. 



[48] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

MOST merciful Father, Thou knowest how greatly 
I need strength to do what Jesus bids me do. Of 
myself I am powerless, but in His strength I may 
be able to follow Him in loving obedience. Help me to 
be grateful for all Thy gifts, for Thy blessings are showered 
upon me beyond all that I could ask or think. Make me 
useful each day, and may I try to be more thoughtful of 
the needs of others. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[49] 



WEDNESDAY 



THE TWELVE CALLED 
INTRODUCTION 

THE Saviour went up into a mountain to spend the 
night in prayer — no unusual thing for Him to do. 
In the early morning He chose the twelve, and this 
choice was probably the subject of His communion with 
God, while others slept. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto 
him whom he would; and they came unto him. 
And he ordained twelve, that they should be with 
him, and that he might send them forth to preach, 

And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out 
devils : 

And Simon he surnamed Peter; 

And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of 
James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The 
sons of thunder: 

And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Mat- 
thew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphseus, and 
Thaddseus, and Simon the Canaanite, 

And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him : and they 
went into an house. — Mark 3: 13-19. 



[50] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

ETERNAL Father, I thank Thee that Thy word makes 
known not only that Jesus prayed, but that it was 
His habit to spend the night in prayer. If my 
Saviour found it needful to have such long seasons of 
communion with Thee, how needful it is for His followers 
to be much in prayer. I am grateful that I may enjoy 
this great privilege of coming into Thy presence to seek 
Thy help and guidance. I entreat Thee, deliver me from 
thoughtless praying, and help me to seek Thee with all 
my heart. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[51] 



THURSDAY 



THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT 
INTRODUCTION 

WITH increasing numbers gathering about Him, 
Jesus retired to one of the mountain ranges 
with His disciples, that He might instruct them 
concerning the kingdom they were chosen to proclaim. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND seeing the multitudes, he went up into a moun- 
tain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto 
him: 

And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, 

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom 
of heaven. 

Blessed are they that mourn : for they shall be comforted. 

Blessed are the meek : for they shall inherit the earth. 

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after 
righteousness : for they shall be filled. 

Blessed are the merciful : for they shall obtain mercy. 

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. 

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called 
the children of God. 

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' 
sake : for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute 
you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, 
for my sake. 

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad : for great is your reward 
in heaven : for so persecuted they the prophets which were 
before you.— Matt. 5 : 1-12. 

[52] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

HOLY Father, help me, I pray Thee, to a fuller 
understanding of these matchless sayings of 
Jesus Christ, my Saviour. Having been chosen 
one of Thy disciples, I, too, would learn from the Great 
Teacher what I may do to hasten the answer to the prayer 
He taught, Thy kingdom come. Thou who art the King 
of kings, wilt Thou reign in my heart. As one of Thy 
subjects, help me to render Thee loyal service, and may 
I never be ashamed to let it be known that I belong to 
Thee. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. 
Amen. 



[53] 



FRIDAY 



THE CENTURION'S SERVANT 
HEALED 

INTRODUCTION 

THE captain of the troop quartered in Capernaum 
sent elders of the synagogue to Jesus in behalf of 
his servant or slave, who was dangerously ill. 
Jesus heeded the request of the elders, and answered the 
prayer of the centurion by healing the servant. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND a certain centurion's servant, who was dear 
unto him, was sick, and ready to die. 
And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the 
elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and 
heal his servant. 

And when they came to Jesus, they besought him 
instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should 
do this: 

For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a syna- 
gogue. 

Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now 
not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, 
saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not 
worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: 

Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come 
unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be 
healed. 

For I also am a man set under authority, having under 
[54] 



FRIDAY 



me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to 
another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do 
this, and he doeth it. 

When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, 
and turned him about, and said unto the people that 
followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great 
faith, no, not in Israel. 

And they that were sent, returning to the house, found 
the servant whole that had been sick. 

—Luke 7: 2-10. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I praise Thee that Thou art 
a never-failing source of comfort and help in time 
of trouble. Thou dost always respond to the cry 
of distress, and Thou dost reward the faith of those who 
put their trust in Thee. I thank Thee that when those 
dear to us are suffering, we can look to Jesus in their 
behalf, assured of His loving sympathy and help. May 
I have grace to take all my cares and anxieties to Him. 
For His sake. Amen. 



[55] 



SATURDAY 



A FUNERAL HALTED 
INTRODUCTION 

WE learn of two processions. One consisted of 
Jesus and His disciples and a great multitude, 
approaching the city gate of Nain. The other 
consisted of a widow and her dead son and many mourners, 
leaving the gate to bury the dead beyond the city. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND it came to pass the day after, that he went into 
a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went 
with him, and much people. 
Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, 
there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his 
mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city 
was with her. 

And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, 
and said unto her, Weep not. 

And he came and touched the bier : and they that bare 
him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto 
thee, Arise. 

And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And 
he delivered him to his mother. 

And there came a fear on all : and they glorified God, 
saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, 
That God hath visited his people. 

And this rumour of him went forth throughout all 
Judsea, and throughout all the region round about. 

—Luke 7: 11-17. 
[56] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

I PRAISE Thee, my Father, for the Old Testament 
prophecy, "Sorrow and sighing shall flee away," and 
for its gracious fulfilment in Jesus Christ. I am 
thankful that I have a Saviour who is able to turn sorrow 
into joy, and that He manifested His sympathy and power 
in behalf of the stricken widow. Surely I may trust such 
a Saviour, whatever may befall me. My Lord and Master, 
help me to follow Thee in lowly service all the days of my 
life. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[57] 



SUNDAY 



JESUS PRAYS 
INTRODUCTION 

IN this prayer of Jesus He gives thanks that the great 
truths He taught could be comprehended by His 
followers, whom the Pharisees despised. He then 
gives the gracious invitation to come unto Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AT that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, 
O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou 
hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, 
and hast revealed them unto babes. 
Even so, Father : for so it seemed good in thy sight. 
All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no 
man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth 
any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever 
the Son will reveal him. 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, 
and I will give you rest. 

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek 
and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. 

—Matt. 11:25-30. 



[58] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, that Thou hast made Thy 
word so plain that even children can understand it. 
Fix Thy word in my mind, I pray Thee, and may it 
always be a light unto my path, that I may see plainly how 
to follow Jesus. I am grateful for the Saviour's invitation 
to come unto Him. I know that His yoke is easy, and 
His burden light, for when I take His yoke upon me, I 
always find Him sharing it with me. My Saviour, help me 
to walk with Thee and work with Thee, that my life may 
be a fruitful one. In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[59] 



MONDAY 

THE MOTHER AND BRETHREN OF 
JESUS 

INTRODUCTION 

WHILE Jesus was speaking to the multitude in 
some public place, His mother and brethren, 
who were outside, made it known that they 
wished to speak to Him. When Jesus was told, He 
explained that spiritual kinship was greater than earthly 
ties. 

SCRIPTURE 

WHILE he yet talked to the people, behold, his 
mother and his brethren stood without, desiring 
to speak with him. 
Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy 
brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. 

But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who 
is my mother? and who are my brethren? 

And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, 
and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! 

For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in 
heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. 

—Matt. 12: 46-50. 



[60] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, Holy Father, for home and its blessed 
relationships, and for the love of those dear to me. 
I praise Thee that Jesus not only calls those who 
follow Him His friends, but that He also encourages them 
to claim kinship with Him. Help me to remember that 
this spiritual relationship implies doing the will of my 
heavenly Father. I am grateful that Thou hast made me 
a member of the family of God, and I devoutly pray that 
I may ever be found seeking my heavenly Father's inter- 
ests. In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[61] 



TUESDAY 



HEARING AND UNDERSTANDING 

INTRODUCTION 

JESUS, seated in a boat, taught the multitude gathered 
near the shore. Possibly a man on the hillside before 
Him, casting seed, suggested the parable to Jesus. 
The disciples did not fully understand the meaning of the 
parable, and Jesus explained it to them. 

SCRIPTURE 

HEAR ye therefore the parable of the sower. 
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, 
and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked 
one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. 
This is he which received seed by the way side. 

But he that received the seed into stony places, the same 
is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; 

Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while : 
for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the 
word, by and by he is offended. 

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that 
heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the 
deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh 
unfruitful. 

But he that received seed into the good ground is he 
that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also 
beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundred-fold, 
some sixty, some thirty. — Matt. 13: 18-23. 



[62] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I am glad that Jesus was always 
ready to answer the questions of His disciples, and 
I thank Thee that Thou dost encourage me to 
look to the Saviour when perplexing questions arise in my 
mind. I pray that I may hear Thy word aright, and that 
it may find lodgment in my heart, and bear fruit to Thy 
glory. The Saviour has said, I have chosen you, and 
ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit. 
Help me, Lord, to be a fruitful follower of Jesus Christ. 
For His sake. Amen. 



[63] 



WEDNESDAY 

JESUS STILLS THE STORM 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER dismissing the multitude as night was ap- 
proaching, Jesus and His disciples entered a fishing 
boat and set sail across the lake. In His weariness 
Jesus fell asleep, but He was aroused by the disciples in 
great fear, for a storm had arisen and the boat was filled 
with water. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND the same day, when the even was come, he saith 
unto him, Let us pass over unto the other side. 
And when they had sent away the multitude, 
they took him even as he was in the ship: and there were 
also with him other little ships. 

And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves 
beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 

And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a 
pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, 
carest thou not that we perish? 

And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the 
sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was 
a great calm. 

And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it 
that ye have no faith? 

And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, 
What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the 
sea obey him?— Matt. 4:35-41. 

[64] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, I praise Thee that Thou dost 
rule in heaven and upon earth, and that the wind 
and sea obey Thee. Wilt Thou rule in my heart, 
and when troubles or doubts assail me, may I realize the 
presence of Jesus, and call upon Him for help. Give me 
faith to believe that at His command, "Peace, be still," 
an immediate calm will follow. Increase my trust in Thy 
loving care, and teach me that I am safe if I am where 
Jesus is. For His sake. Amen. 



[65] 



THURSDAY 



IMPORTUNATE PRAYER 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS had already given His disciples instruction in 
prayer. He now gives a parable on persisting in 
prayer. He also gives three great promises to those 
who ask, seek and knock, and assures them of God's read- 
iness to give to those who call upon Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he said unto them, Which of you shall have a 
friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say 
unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 

For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I 
have nothing to set before him? 

And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me 
not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in 
bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 

I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, 
because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity 
he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. 

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; 
seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto 
you. 

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 

If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, 
will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a 
fish give him a serpent? 

Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 
[66] 



THURSDAY 



If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto 
your children: how much more shall your heavenly 
Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? 

—Luke 11:5-13. 



PRAYER 

FORGIVE me, O Lord, if my prayers have been lacking 
in earnestness. I fear that I sometimes pray in a 
listless manner, without really expecting an answer, 
and sometimes I begin to doubt when an answer seems to 
be delayed. May I have grace to believe that every 
promise of Thine will be kept, and that if I ask I shall 
receive, if I seek I shall find, and if I knock it shall be 
opened to me. I know that I shall not displease Thee if 
I seek importunately the good gifts Thou hast graciously 
promised. Hear my prayer, in Jesus' name. Amen. 



[67] 



FRIDAY 



HEALING OF A DUMB MAN 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS had just given sight to two blind men, when 
a dumb man with an evil spirit was brought to Him 
for healing. Jesus cast out the evil spirit and 
restored speech to the man who had been dumb. The 
compassion of Jesus never failed. 

SCRIPTURE 

AS they went out, behold, they brought to him a 
dumb man possessed with a devil. 

And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake : 
and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so 
seen in Israel. 

But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through 
the prince of the devils. 

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching 
in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the 
kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease 
among the people. 

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with 
compassion on them, because they fainted, and were 
scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. 

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is 
plenteous, but the labourers are few; 

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will 
send forth labourers into his harvest. — Matt. 9: 32-38. 



[68] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

THOU God of all grace, I praise Thee for the com- 
passion of Jesus; for the wonderful power He so 
often exercised in behalf of those who were taken 
to Him for healing, so that evil spirits departed at His 
command, and the dumb were made to speak. I thank 
Thee for the God-given power of speech, and I pray that 
Thou wilt help me to make the right use of it. Forbid 
that I should say anything that will offend, but may the 
words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be 
acceptable in Thy sight, Lord, my strength, and my 
Redeemer. Amen. 



SATURDAY 



DAUGHTER OF JAIRUS RAISED 
INTRODUCTION 

ONE of the chief men of the synagogue came to 
Jesus very humbly, and begged Him to come and 
heal his only daughter, who was at the point of 
death. When Jesus reached the ruler's house, He found 
she was already being mourned as dead. Jesus went to 
the room where the little girl lay and, taking her by the 
hand, He restored her to life. 

SCRIPTURE 

WHILE he spake these things unto them, behold, 
there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, 
saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come 
and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. 

And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his 
disciples. . . . 

And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw 
the minstrels and the people making a noise, 

He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, 
but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. 

But when the people were put forth, he went in, and 
took her by the hand, and the maid arose. 
And the fame hereof went abroad into all that land. 

—Matt. 0: 18-26. 



[70] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee that though the 
Saviour was subjected to the scornful laughter of 
those who were gathered in the ruler's house, He 
heeded it not, but brought life to one who was dead. I 
pray for grace to do those things that Thou dost bid me 
do, even though it may sometimes be at the cost of derision. 
Help me to be a faithful follower of my Lord and Master, 
whatever the cost may be. For His sake. Amen. 



[71] 



SUNDAY 



A SINNER'S OFFERING 
INTRODUCTION 

THE name of the woman is not given. She was known 
as a sinner, and she may have heard the gracious 
invitation of Jesus, "Come unto me." Regardless 
of the assembled guests at Simon's table, she came to 
Jesus with her offering of tears and ointment, and sought 
and found forgiveness. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND one of the Pharisees desired him that he would 
eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's 
house, and sat down to meat. 

And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, 
when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's 
house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 

And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began 
to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the 
hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them 
with the ointment. 

Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, 
he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a 
prophet, would have known who and what manner of 
woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 

And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have some- 
what to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 

There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: 
the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 

And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave 
[72] 



SUNDAY 



them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love 
him most? 

Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom 
he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast 
rightly judged 

Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, 
are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is 
forgiven, the same loveth little. 

And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 

—Luke 7: 36-48. 

PRAYER 

MY Lord and Saviour, Thou art indeed the Friend 
of sinners, and Thou dost never turn from those 
who seek Thee in repentance and tears. I am 
thankful that though I have not always remembered Thee, 
but have sometimes erred and strayed, Thou hast freely 
forgiven when I have again sought Thee. I praise Thee 
that Thy love never ceases, for Thou art the Good Shep- 
herd, and when one of Thy flock wanders from the fold, 
Thou dost seek until the lost is found. Keep me close 
to Thyself, I beseech Thee, for Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[73] 



MONDAY 



JUDGING OTHERS 
INTRODUCTION 

DURING the brief years of His earthly ministry, Jesus 
sought to teach His twelve chosen followers many 
things. One of these had to do with judging the 
shortcomings of others, and He gives them the distinct 
command, "Judge not." 

SCRIPTURE 

JUDGE not, that ye be not judged. 
For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be 
judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be 
measured to you again. 

And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's 

eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 

Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the 

mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own 

eye? 

Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine 
own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the 
mote out of thy brother's eye. 

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye 
your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under 
their feet, and turn again and rend you. 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; 
knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 

—Matt. 7: 1-8. 
[74] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

I PRAY Thee, my Father, help me to learn the lesson 
that Jesus taught His disciples regarding hasty and 
unkind judgment. Thou knowest that I am pained 
if I believe others speak ill of me. Help me to think of 
this whenever I am inclined to entertain or give utterance 
to unkind thoughts concerning others. I would maintain 
a charitable spirit toward all, remembering Thy gentleness 
and forbearance toward me. May I ever have in mind 
what Jesus said, "Judge not." For His sake. Amen. 



[75] 



TUESDAY 



THE TRUE VINE 
INTRODUCTION 

THIS is a part of the discourse of Jesus after partaking 
of the communion with His disciples. He compares 
Himself and His apostles to a vine and its branches. 
The sight of the wine cup may have suggested the thought. 

SCRIPTURE 

I AM the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh 
away : and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth 
it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 

Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken 
unto you. 

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear 
fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, 
except ye abide in me. 

I am the vine, ye are the branches : He that abideth in 
me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: 
for without me ye can do nothing. 

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, 
and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into 
the fire, and they are burned. 

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall 
ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; 
so shall ye be my disciples. 

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: con- 
tinue ye in my love. — John 15 : 1-9. 
[76] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

GIVE me understanding, I pray Thee, my Father, 
that I may see what Jesus meant by likening the 
relation between Himself and His followers to that 
of the vine and its branches. Grant me grace to abide 
in Jesus Christ, who is the only true source of life, for only 
then shall I be able, as a living branch, to bear fruit and 
glorify Thee. I pray that not a day may pass without 
my doing some good. In thought, speech, and act, I 
would be a fruit-bearing disciple. In Jesus' name. 
Amen. 



[77] 



WEDNESDAY 



A WISE MAN AND A FOOLISH ONE 
INTRODUCTION 

THE Saviour makes plain that something more is 
required than making profession of discipleship. 
He shows that entrance to the kingdom of God is 
gained only by doing the will of God. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOT every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall 
enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth 
the will of my Father which is in heaven. 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we 
not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out 
devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: 
depart from me, ye that work iniquity. 

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and 
doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built 
his house upon a rock: 

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the 
winds blew and beat upon that house; and it fell not: 
for it was founded upon a rock. 

And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and 
doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, 
which built his house upon the sand : 

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the 
winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and 
great was the fall of it. 

[78] 



WEDNESDAY 



And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, 
the people were astonished at his doctrine: 

For he taught them as one having authority, and not 
as the scribes.— Matt. 7: 21-29. 

PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, O Lord, that Thou hast called me to 
be one of Thy disciples. I would not only bear the 
name of a disciple, but I would strive to have the 
trust of a disciple, and to do the work of a disciple. May 
I realize that true discipleship means devotion to Thee 
and obedience to Thy word. By Thy help, I may be not 
only a hearer, but also a doer of the word. I ask Thee, 
my Father, to direct all my ways. For Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 



[79] 



THURSDAY 



FAITH TESTED 

INTRODUCTION 

A SHORT journey from Capernaum brought Jesus 
and His disciples to the borders of Tyre and Sidon. 
There He entered a house, and would have no man 
know it, but He could not be hid. A woman who had 
heard of His wonderful works sought Him to heal her 
daughter. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN Jesus went thence, and departed into the 
coasts of Tyre and Sidon. 

And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the 
same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on 
me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously 
vexed with the devil. 

But he answered her not a word. And his disciples 
came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she 
crieth after us. 

But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the 
lost sheep of the house of Israel. 

Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help 
me. 

But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the 
children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. 

And she said, Truth, Lord : yet the dogs eat of the 
crumbs which fall from their masters' table. 
Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, 
[80] 



THURSDAY 



great is thy faith : be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And 
her daughter was made whole from that very hour. 

—Matt. 15:21-28. 

PRAYER 

O LOVING Saviour, I thank Thee that those who 
seek Thee are sure of a blessing at Thy hands. I 
pray that I may try to have the faith of the woman 
of Canaan, who, though others tried to hinder her, per- 
sisted until the answer to her prayer came. I entreat 
Thee, my Father, for a faith that will not be denied, even 
though the answer may seem long in coming. May my 
faith be so real, that the Saviour may say of me, "Great 
is thy faith." For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[81] 



FRIDAY 



PETER'S QUESTION ANSWERED 
INTRODUCTION 

THE Twelve were in the habit of going to Jesus with 
their questions, and now Peter came to ask if he 
should grant forgiveness to one who had offended as 
many as seven times. The answer of Jesus implies that 
He would not limit forgiveness. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft 
shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? 
till seven times? 

Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven 
times : but, Until seventy times seven. 

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a 
certain king, which would take account of his servants. 

And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought 
unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 

But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded 
him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he 
had, and payment to be made. 

The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, 
saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee 
all. 

Then the lord of that servant was moved with compas- 
sion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 

But the same servant went out, and found one of his 
fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and 
[82] 



FRIDAY 



he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, 
Pay me that thou owest. 

And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and be- 
sought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay 
thee all. 

And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, 
till he should pay the debt. 

So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they 
were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all 
that was done. 

Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto 
him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, 
because thou desiredst me: 

Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy 
fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 

—Matt. 18: 21-33. 

PRAYER 

THOU God of all mercy, I thank Thee that I, too, 
may enjoy the privilege that Peter and the other 
disciples enjoyed of going to Jesus with their ques- 
tions. I am glad that the Saviour answered this question 
on forgiveness, and that He teaches me not to count the 
number of times I forgive. I pray to Thee daily to forgive 
me as I forgive others, and yet I do not always show the 
forgiving spirit that I should. May I have so rich a 
measure of Thy love that I shall forgive from my heart 
those who sin against me. In the name of Jesus Christ 
my Saviour. Amen. 



[83] 



SATURDAY 



THE SAVIOUR WEEPS 
INTRODUCTION 

ON two occasions Jesus was moved to tears. He 
thus manifested His grief at the grave of Lazarus, 
showing His sympathy for those He loved. Again 
He wept over Jerusalem as He beheld it and thought of 
its wickedness and its impending doom. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND when he was come near, he beheld the city, and 
wept over it, 
Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least 
in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! 
but now they are hid from thine eyes. 

For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies 
shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, 
and keep thee in on every side, 

And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy 
children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one 
stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time 
of thy visitation. — Luke 19: 41-44. 

Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw 
him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if 
thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. 

When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews 
also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, 
and was troubled, 

And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto 
him, Lord, come and see. — John 11:32-34. 
[84] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, I am moved by the human 
tenderness of my Saviour. Though He was 
the Son of God, He did not count it weakness 
to shed tears in the presence of sorrow and death. May 
I realize what a dreadful thing sin is, that its contem- 
plation should cause Jesus to weep. Help me to remem- 
ber that I cannot do wrong without causing my Saviour 
sorrow. May I also remember that when sorrow or 
trouble come to me, I can go to Jesus for sympathy and 
comfort. I ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ 
my Saviour. Amen. 



[85] 



SUNDAY 



BEING WATCHFUL 
INTRODUCTION 

BY the use of parables, Jesus explains to His disciples 
the importance of watchfulness. He would have 
them in a state not only of expectancy, but also 
of preparedness. 

SCRIPTURE 

LET your loins be girded about, and your lights 
burning; 

And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for 
their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that 
when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him 
immediately. 

Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he 
cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that 
he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, 
and will come forth and serve them. 

And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the 
third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. 

And this know, that if the goodman of the house had 
known what hour the thief would come, he would have 
watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken 
through. 

Be ye therefore ready also : for the Son of man cometh 
at an hour when ye think not. 

Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this 
parable unto us, or even to all? — Luke 12 : 35-41. 



[86] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I pray that I may always be 
looking for the presence of the Saviour, who is my 
Lord and Master. As one of His servants, I am 
charged with certain duties, and I would engage in them 
so faithfully that I shall not fear that the Lord will find 
me unprepared for His coming. I am grateful that it 
is my privilege to be employed in Thy service. Help 
me to be watchful each hour of the day, that no unkind 
word shall escape my lips, and that no opportunity for 
service shall be neglected. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[87] 



MONDAY 



THE HIDDEN LIGHT 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS calls His disciples the light of the world, and 
shows them how useless a hidden light is. He tells 
them that the truth should be carefully listened to, 
and then heeded. 

SCRIPTURE 

YE are the light of the world. A city that is set on an 
hill cannot be hid. 

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under 
a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light unto 
all that are in the house. 

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see 
your good works, and glorify your Father which is in 
heaven. 

Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the 
prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 

For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, 
one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till 
all be fulfilled. 

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least 
commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called 
the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall 
do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the 
kingdom of heaven. 

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness 
shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, 
ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. 

—Matt. 5:14-29. 
[88] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

OGOD, my heavenly Father, I thank Thee for a 
Saviour who is the light of the world, and I pray 
that the light that He has kindled in my heart 
may not be hidden, but that it may be used to disperse 
darkness in the lives of others. Help me to obey the 
command of Jesus, and take heed to Thy word. Thou 
hast given it to me for my guidance, and I pray for grace 
to read Thy word more carefully, that I may discover the 
rich treasure it contains. May Jesus Christ rule in my 
daily life. For His sake. Amen. 



[89] 



TUESDAY 



HEALING OF THE BLIND MAN 
INTRODUCTION 

A BLIND beggar who sat at the door of the temple 
seeking alms was noticed by Jesus and His dis- 
ciples. The disciples were curious to know whose 
fault it was that the man was born blind. The interest 
of Jesus centers in the man's pitiable condition, and He 
gives him sight. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was 
blind from his birth. 

And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who 
did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? 

Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his 
parents : but that the works of God should be made mani- 
fest in him. 

I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is 
day : the night cometh, when no man can work. 

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. 

When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and 
made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the 
blind man with the clay, 

And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, 
(which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way 
therefore, and washed and came seeing. 

The neighbours therefore, and they which before had 
seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat 
and begged? 

[90] 



TUESDAY 



Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but 
he said, I am he. 

Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes 
opened? 

He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made 
clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to 
the pool of Siloam, and wash : and I went and washed, 
and I received sight. — John 9: 1-11. 

PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, O Lord, for all the blessings of my 
life. I cannot count all Thy mercies, they are so 
many. I am grateful for my eyes, and for all they 
enable me to enjoy. May I make a right use of them, 
that they may be used in Thy service. I consecrate them 
to Thee, praying that they may see the opportunities for 
doing good that lie in my path. Above all, may I behold 
Thee in all the blessings that are mine. For Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 



[91] 



WEDNESDAY 



PARABLES OF THE KINGDOM 
INTRODUCTION 

SEATED in the prow of a fishing boat, Jesus addressed 
the multitude on the shore, and proclaimed the new 
kingdom of God. For their better understanding 
of the great truths He presented, He made use of many 
parables, some of which are in the following Scripture. 

SCRIPTURE 

ANOTHER parable put he forth unto them, saying, 
The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard 
seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field : 

Which indeed is the least of all seeds; but when it is 
grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a 
tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the 
branches thereof. 

Another parable spake he unto them: The kingdom of 
heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took and hid 
in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. . . . 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid 
in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, 
and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and 
buyeth that field. 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant- 
man, seeking goodly pearls; 

Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went 
and sold all that he had, and bought it. 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that 
was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind : 
[92] 



WEDNESDAY 



Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat 
down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the 
bad away. 

So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall 
come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just; 

And shall cast them into the furnace of fire : there shall 
be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 

Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these 
things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. 

Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which 
is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven, is like unto a 
man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his 
treasure things new and old. — Matt. 13: 31-33, 44-52. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee for the many 
parables spoken by the Saviour, and I pray that 
they may enable me to have a better understanding 
of what He taught. I praise Thee for the spread of Thy 
kingdom, and I ask for Thy help, that I may have some 
part in making Jesus known. May I see that there is 
something for me to do, and that Thou dost honor me by 
permitting me to be a worker together with Thyself. 
Increase my love for Thy kingdom, I entreat Thee, in 
the name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. Amen. 



THURSDAY 



FOOTSTEPS ON THE SEA 
INTRODUCTION 

HAVING sent the disciples across the sea in their 
boat, Jesus dismissed the multitude and went up 
into a mountain to pray. Far past midnight the 
disciples were toiling at the oars against a very boisterous 
sea, when Jesus appeared, walking upon the water. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get 
into a ship, and to go before him unto the other 
side, while he sent the multitudes away. 

And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went 
up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening 
was come, he was there alone. 

But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with 
waves : for the wind was contrary. 

And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto 
them, walking on the sea. 

And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, 
they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried 
out for fear. 

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of 
good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, 
bid me come unto thee on the water. 

And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down 
out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 
[94] 



THURSDAY 



But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and 
beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 

And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and 
caught him, and said unto him, thou of little faith, 
wherefore didst thou doubt? 

And when they were come into the ship, the wind 
ceased.— Matt. 14: 22-32. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, as I think of the wonderful 
works that Jesus performed, I can say of Him, as 
did those toiling disciples on the sea, "Of a truth 
Thou art the Son of God." If troubles threaten, and 
fears assail me, I pray that I may realize that Jesus knows 
all about it, and will come to my help. May I behold Him 
in the darkest hours, and hear Him say, "Be of good cheer; 
it is I, be not afraid." Grant me an abiding faith in Him, 
under all circumstances. For His sake. Amen. 



[95] 



FRIDAY 



PROFIT AND LOSS 

INTRODUCTION 

JESUS makes known to His disciples that suffering 
and death await Him, but gives them the glorious 
promise of His resurrection. He tells them that 
losing life is to find it, and that it cannot profit a man to 
gain the whole world, if he lose his own soul. 

SCRIPTURE 

FROM that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his 
disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and 
suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and 
scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 

Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, 
Be it far from thee, Lord : this shall not be unto thee. 

But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, 
Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not 
the things that be of God, but those that be of men. 

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come 
after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and 
follow me. 

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it : and whoso- 
ever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole 
world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in 
exchange for his soul? — Matt. 16: 21-26. 



[96] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Father in Heaven, I cannot wonder that Peter 
was appalled at the thought that Jesus was to 
suffer and die. Help me to remember that it was 
for me that He endured the agony of the cross. Teach 
me, I pray Thee, the true value of life, and make me 
willing to spend it in Thy service. May I count all 
things but loss, if I may but gain Jesus Christ. I would 
manifest my love for Him by being ready to make any 
sacrifice for His sake. I pray for grace to make such use 
of my life, that I shall glorify my Saviour each day. For 
His sake. Amen. 



[97] 



SATURDAY 

JESUS PRAYS FOR HIS DISCIPLES 

INTRODUCTION 

JESUS prays for those who are His, asking God to 
have them in His keeping, that they may be safe 
from the evil that is in the world. He claims them 
as His own; that God has given them to Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

I PRAY not that thou shouldest take them out of the 
world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the 
world. 

Sanctify them through thy truth : thy word is truth. 
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I 
also sent them into the world. 

And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also 
might be sanctified through the truth. 

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which 
shall believe on me through their word. — John 17: 15-20. 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

OLORD God Almighty, I humbly pray for the for- 
giveness of my sins, in the name of Jesus Christ, 
my Saviour. I praise Thee that Thy word teaches 
that Jesus prays for those who are trying to follow Him. 
Even as I now come to Thee, I may believe that Jesus is 
my Advocate, and that He intercedes in my behalf. If 
my plea is weak and faulty, He will sanctify it and make 
it His own. I offer Thee grateful praise, my Father, for 
the gift of such a Saviour. In His name. Amen. 



[99] 



SUNDAY 



OUR TREATMENT OF OTHERS 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS teaches that love should not be confined to 
those who love us, but that it should include our 
enemies as well. He would have us show the same 
spirit toward those who are unfriendly, and who injure 
us, as He Himself manifested. We are to follow His 
example. 

SCRIPTURE 

YE have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an 
eye, and a tooth for a tooth : 

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but 
whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him 
the other also. 

And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away 
thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 

And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with 
him twain. 

Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would 
borrow of thee turn not thou away. 

Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love 
thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy: 

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that 
curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for 
them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 

That ye may be the children of your Father which is in 
heaven : for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the 
good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 

—Matt. 5:38^5. 
[100] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, I do desire to be taught by 
Thee, Thou who art the Source of all wisdom and 
goodness. Thou dost bid me love my enemies, 
and do good to those who hate me. Thou knowest it is 
not difficult for me to love my friends, or to do good to 
them, but I sometimes show a very different spirit to 
those who are unfriendly. I devoutly pray that the love 
of Jesus Christ may so fill my heart, that I shall be able 
to obey Thy command to love my enemies and do good 
to them. Hear my prayer, for Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[101] 



MONDAY 



TWO BLIND MEN HEALED 
INTRODUCTION 

AS Jesus was on the way to Peter's house, He was 
followed by two blind men, whose sight had been 
destroyed by disease. They appealed to Him as 
the expected Messiah, and begged for mercy. They 
declared their faith that Jesus was able to restore their 
sight, and He healed them. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND when Jesus departed thence, two blind men 
followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, 
have mercy on us. 
And when he was come into the house, the blind men 
came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye 
that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, 
Lord. 

Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your 
faith be it unto you. 

And their eyes were opened: and Jesus straitly charged 
them, saying, See that no man know it. 

But they, when they were departed, spread abroad 
his fame in all that country. — Matt. 9: 27-31. 



[102] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

1 THANK Thee, O Lord, that those who come to Thee 
with trustful hearts are assured of Thy blessing. Thou 
art ever moved with compassion for those who call upon 
Thee for mercy, for the Lord is merciful and gracious. 
Help me to trust Thee as completely as the blind men 
trusted Thee, that I may hear Thee say, "According to 
your faith be it unto you." I praise Thee, my Father, 
that Jesus is my Friend, and I pray that He may walk 
with me each day, and that I may never go where He 
cannot go with me. For His sake. Amen. 



[103] 



TUESDAY 



EARTHLY AND HEAVENLY 
TREASURE 

INTRODUCTION 

JESUS contrasts earthly with heavenly riches, that it 
may be seen how fleeting earthly things are, and how 
enduring are the treasures that are laid up in heaven 
for those who love Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

LAY not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where 
moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves 
break through and steal: 
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where 
neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do 
not break through nor steal: 

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 
The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye 
be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 

But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of 
darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, 
how great is that darkness! — Matt. 6: 19-23. 



[104] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Father, help me to lay up treasure for myself, 
and may I be sure that it is the kind that endures. 
I know that if my heart is fixed only upon those 
things that will contribute to earthly pleasure, I cannot 
be rich toward God. May my love for Thee prompt me 
to seek riches that the world cannot give or take from 
me, the riches that I may enjoy in this life and in the life 
which is to come. May I seek my highest joy and the 
richest treasure in striving to do all the good I can, in the 
name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. Amen. 



[105] 



WEDNESDAY 

GOD'S CARE FOR HIS CHILDREN 
INTRODUCTION 

THE Saviour reminds His disciples that God cares 
for the birds, and feeds them. He also points to 
the flowers of the field in their glorious colors. If 
God cares for birds and flowers, He surely cares for His 
children, and they should not be troubled by anxious 
thoughts. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEREFORE I say unto you, Take no thought for 
your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; 
nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not 
the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 

Behold the fowls of the air : for they sow not, neither do 
they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly 
Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto 
his stature? 

And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the 
lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do 
they spin: 

And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his 
glory was not arrayed like one of these. 

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which 
to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not 
much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? 
or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be 
clothed? 

[106] 



WEDNESDAY 



(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for 
your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all 
these things. 

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his right- 
eousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the 
morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Suffi- 
cient unto the day is the evil thereof. — Matt. 6 : 25-34. 

PRAYER 

HOLY Father, may I never have any doubts con- 
cerning Thy loving care. Thou art my Father, 
Thou knowest all my needs, and I can safely 
trust Thee to supply them. Forgive me that I am some- 
times anxious about things that should not trouble me. 
I am one of Thy children, and I am sure of Thy loving 
care. Give me a trustful heart, help me to give more 
thought to my life and how I am spending it, and to have 
less care concerning things of smaller importance. For 
Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[107] 



THURSDAY 



THE TRANSFIGURATION 
INTRODUCTION 

FOR a week the disciples had been turning over in 
their minds what Jesus had said about His suffering 
and death upon the cross. They needed to be 
cheered and comforted. Jesus took three chosen dis- 
ciples up into Mount Hermon, where they beheld His 
glory, and heard God speak. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and 
John his brother, and bringeth them up into an 
high mountain apart, 

And was transfigured before them: and his face did 
shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. 

And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and 
Elias, talking with him. 

Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is 
good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three 
tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for 
Elias. 

While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed 
them : and, behold, a voice out of the cloud which said, 
This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear 
ye him. 

And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, 
and were sore afraid. 

And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and 
be not afraid. 

[108] 



THURSDAY 



And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no 
man, save Jesus only. 

And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus 
charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the 
Son of man be risen again from the dead. — Matt. 17: 1-9. 

PRAYER 

I PRAISE Thee, my Father, that Thy word makes 
known what Peter, James, and John saw and heard in 
the Mount of Transfiguration. Give me, I pray 
Thee, a fuller understanding of the vision and the voice. 
Help me to catch a glimpse of that for which Jesus prayed: 
"Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, 
be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, 
which thou hast given me." Grant that Jesus Christ may 
be manifested in my life. For His sake. Amen. 



[109] 



FRIDAY 



CONFESSING CHRIST 
INTRODUCTION 

THE time having come for Jesus to reveal Himself 
to the disciples as the Messiah, He asks two very 
important questions, and brings out that great 
confession of Peter. 

SCRIPTURE 

WHEN Jesus came into the coasts of Csesarea 
Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do 
men say that I the Son of man am? 

And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: 
some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 

He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 

And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the 
Christ, the Son of the living God. 

And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art 
thou, Simon Bar-jona : for flesh and blood hath not revealed 
it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon 
this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall 
not prevail against it. 

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of 
heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be 
bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on 
earth shall be loosed in heaven. 

Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no 
man that he was Jesus the Christ. — Matt. 16: 13-20. 



[110] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, be Thou my Guide and Helper, 
as I try to pray. May I hear Thee asking, 
"Whom do you say that I am?" and may I be 
able to say from my heart, "Thou art the Christ, the Son 
of the Living God." I praise Thee, my Father, that 
Jesus has revealed Himself to me as my Saviour, and I 
ask that I may have grace to confess Him each day, with 
my lips and by my conduct. loving Saviour, I would 
consecrate myself anew to Thee and to Thy service. 
Amen. 



[Ill] 



SATURDAY 



FOLLOWING JESUS 
INTRODUCTION 

HAVING told His disciples of the suffering that 
awaited Him before He entered into glory, Jesus 
now shows them that if they are to follow Him 
they, too, must bear the cross; nothing must hinder their 
devotion to Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will 
come after me, let him deny himself, and take up 
his cross, and follow me. 
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whoso- 
ever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole 
world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in 
exchange for his soul? 

For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father 
with his angels; and then he shall reward every man 
according to his works. 

Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, 
which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of 
man coming in his kingdom. — Matt. 16: 24-28. 



[112] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I have given myself to Thee, 
and I count myself a follower of Jesus Christ. 
As I hope to be a partaker in the joy that He 
came to obtain for me, I humbly pray for grace that will 
enable me to be ready to share His suffering. He bids me 
take up the cross daily, and follow Him. Forgive me 
that I have sometimes been unwilling to make sacrifices 
for Him. As I think of what He endured for my sake, 
may I count no sacrifice too great to make for Him. In 
His name. Amen. 



[113] 



SUNDAY 

THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM 

INTRODUCTION 

JESUS and His disciples were in that Capernaum 
home where they were wont to talk together. In 
the quiet of the evening He asked them a question 
they were ashamed to answer, so they remained silent, 
and sitting there surrounded by the Twelve, Jesus taught 
a great lesson. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he came to Capernaum: and being in the house 
he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among 
yourselves by the way? 
But they held their peace: for by the way they had 
disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. 
And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto 
them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last 
of all, and servant of all. 

And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: 

and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, 

Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my 

name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, 

receiveth not me, but him that sent me. 

—Mark 9: 33-37. 



[114] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee that I can come 
to Jesus with my questions. Help me to listen 
when He asks me questions, as I believe He does 
sometimes ask them, as really as He asked the Twelve. 
I know He will be very patient with my lack of under- 
standing, as He was with the disciples. I pray Thee, teach 
me humility, and may I be able to see that the greatest 
in the kingdom are those who serve. Wilt Thou hear my 
prayer, as I ask Thee to make me a faithful servant of 
Thine. In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[115] 



MONDAY 



THE GOOD SHEPHERD 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS draws a picture of the unfitness of the teachers 
of Israel to lead God's flock. He makes plain that 
He is the Good Shepherd, and that He knows His 
sheep, and that they know Him and follow Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

VERILY, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth 
not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth 
up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 

But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of 
the sheep. 

To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his 
voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth 
them out. 

And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth 
before them, and the sheep follow him : for they know his 
voice. 

And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from 
him : for they know not the voice of strangers. . . . 

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am 
known of mine. 

As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: 
and I lay down my life for the sheep. — John 10: 1-5, 14, 15. 



[116] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Father in Heaven, I am grateful that Thou hast 
taken me into Thy fold, and that I can say, "The 
Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want." Keep 
me from straying, and help me to follow Jesus, wherever He 
may lead, for then I know that all my wants shall be 
supplied. Though the path may be difficult, and the 
way sometimes seem strange, if Thou, my Saviour, art 
leading, I need not fear. Trustfully I shall be able to 
say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the 
days of my life." Hear my prayer, Lord, for Jesus* 
sake. Amen. 



[117] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS AND A LAWYER 
INTRODUCTION 

THIS parable was given by Jesus in answer to the 
question of a lawyer who sought to entrap the 
Saviour. Jesus showed him what it meant to love 
his neighbor as himself. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND Jesus answering said, A certain man went down 
from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, 
which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded 
him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 

And by chance there came down a certain priest that 
way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 
And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came 
and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. 

But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where 

he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 

And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring 

in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought 

him to an inn, and took care of him. 

And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two 
pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take 
care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I 
come again, I will repay thee. 

Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour 
unto him that fell among the thieves? 

And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then 
said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise. 

—Luke 10: 30-37. 
[118] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

HOLY Father, I pray that the remembrance of Thy 
goodness toward me may make me thoughtful 
of others. I thank Thee that Jesus has made so 
plain the meaning of the command, "Thou shalt love thy 
neighbor as thyself." I realize how difficult it may 
sometimes seem to yield obedience to this command, and 
I beseech Thee, help me to love Thee with all my heart, 
and with all my strength, and with all my mind, and then 
only shall I be able to love others as myself. Grant me 
grace to do this, Lord, for Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[119] 



WEDNESDAY 



A WOMAN HEALED 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS was teaching in the synagogue on the Sabbath. 
He saw a woman who was unable to stand erect, 
because of an infirmity, and He healed her. The 
ruler of the synagogue was angered because Jesus had 
performed the miracle on the Sabbath. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit 
of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, 
and could in no wise lif t up herself. 

And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said 
unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. 

And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was 
made straight, and glorified God. 

And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indig- 
nation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, 
and said unto the people, There are six days in which 
men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, 
and not on the sabbath day. 

The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, 
doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his 
ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? 

And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abra- 
ham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be 
loosed from this bond on the sabbath day? 

And when he had said these things, all his adversaries 
were ashamed : and all the people rejoiced for all the glori- 
ous things that were done by him. — Luke 13: 11-17. 
[120] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

MOST gracious God, I thank Thee for home and for 
the loved ones Thou hast given me, and I pray 
that Thou wilt help me to live in my home as a 
true follower of Jesus Christ. I praise Thee for a Saviour 
who pities the unfortunate, and who is ever ready to give 
relief to those who suffer. I am glad that He spoke words 
of healing and comfort to the woman who was bent with 
infirmity, and I pray that, as one of His disciples, I may 
try to do good to those who need sympathy and help. 
May I remember Thy great love for me each day. For 
Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[181] 



THURSDAY 



JESUS AND MARY AND MARTHA 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS is in the home of Mary and Martha and Lazarus, 
where He was ever a welcome guest. Martha asked 
Jesus a question, for she was troubled that her sister 
Mary left the household cares chiefly to her. The answer 
of Jesus shows that He regarded Mary's quiet devotion as 
preferable to worry over daily tasks. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOW it came to pass, as they went, that he entered 
into a certain village: and a certain woman named 
Martha received him into her house. 
And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at 
Jesus' feet, and heard his word. 

But Martha was cumbered about much service, and 
came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my 
sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that 
she help me. 

And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, 
thou art careful and troubled about many things: 

But one thing is needful : and Mary hath chosen that 
good part, which shall not be taken away from her. 

—Luke 10: 38-42. 



[122] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

MOST heartily do I thank Thee, my Father, for all 
Thy goodness toward me. I praise Thee for this 
glimpse of Jesus in the home, and I am thankful 
that He has a place in my home, and that He is always 
welcome. Forbid that I should give so much thought 
to my secular duties that I shall find little time to sit at 
the feet of Jesus and learn of Him. Help me to be faithful 
in my daily tasks, but keep me from neglecting the one 
thing needful, the companionship and fellowship of my 
Saviour. In His name. Amen. 



[123] 



FRIDAY 

JESUS ONE WITH GOD 
INTRODUCTION 

ON a wintry day Jesus was walking in the covered 
porch of the temple, when He was surrounded by 
the Jews. The question they asked Him plainly 
indicated that they sought an accusation against Him. 
He tells them that He and the Father are one. 



A 



SCRIPTURE 

ND it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, 
and it was winter. f 

And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomons 

porch. 

Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto 
him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be 
the Christ, tell us plainly. 

Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye beheved not: 
the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness 

of me. T 

But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as 1 

said unto you. 

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they 

follow me: 

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never 
perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 

My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; 
and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 

I and my Father are one.— John 10: 22-30. 
[124] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

OGOD, Thou King Eternal, help me to draw near 
reverently and with faith. May I have greater 
love for Thy word, and strive to be more obedient 
to it. I praise Thee that it reveals Jesus as the Son of 
God, and the Saviour of men. In His gracious words 
and in His wonderful works may I behold Thee, Thy love, 
Thy goodness, and Thy grace. I would consecrate myself 
anew to Thee and to Thy service. Accept the offering of 
my love and devotion, in Jesus' name. Amen. 



[125] 



SATURDAY 



THE INVITATION DECLINED 

INTRODUCTION 

THIS parable of the Great Supper was given by Jesus 
as He sat at meat with His disciples in the home 
of a Pharisee. It was called forth by a remark made 
by one of those present, and the parable indicates the 
kind of hospitality that yields the largest return. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN said he unto him, A certain man made a great 
supper, and bade many: 
And sent his servant at supper time to say to 
them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now 
ready. 

And they all with one consent began to make excuse. 
The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, 
and I [must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me 
excused. 

And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and 
I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. 

And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore 
I cannot come. 

So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. 
Then the master of the house being angry said to his 
servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the 
city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and 
the halt, and the blind. 

And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast com- 
manded, and yet there is room. 
[126] 



SATURDAY 



And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the 
highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that 
my house may be filled. 

For I say unto you, That none of those men which were 
bidden shall taste of my supper. — Luke 14 : 16-24. 

PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, that I may learn the 
things that Jesus taught when He walked among men. 
I praise Thee for His gracious invitation to partake 
with Him of the wonderful provision of Thy bounty. 
Forbid that I should begin to make excuse when He bids 
me share in the richness of Thy grace. May I see that it 
is possible for me to be one of Thy messengers in extending 
the invitation of Jesus to come to Him. For His sake. 
Amen. 



[127] 



SUNDAY 



SEARCHING FOR THE LOST 
INTRODUCTION 

THOSE whom the Jewish rabbis would not permit 
to come near them gathered about Jesus to hear 
Him. The Pharisees were angered that he should 
talk and eat with publicans and sinners, and Jesus spoke 
these parables to these murmuring Pharisees. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he spake this parable unto them, saying, 
What man of you, having an hundred sheep, 
if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety 
and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, 
until he find it? 

And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, 
rejoicing. 

And when he cometh home, he calleth together his 
friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with 
me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. 

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over 
one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and 
nine just persons, which need no repentance. 

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she 
lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the 
house, and seek diligently till she find it? 

And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and 
her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I 
have found the piece which I had lost. 
[128] 



SUNDAY 



Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of 
the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. 

—Luke 15: 3-10. 

PRAYER 

O LOVING Father, I thank thee that Jesus came to 
seek and save the lost. Help me to see in these 
parables how near the Saviour's heart sinners are, 
for He came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repent- 
ance. May I never cease praising Thee that He sought 
and found me. Teach me how Thou dost value the 
finding of the lost, for heaven rejoices over one sinner 
who is found. My Father, help me to have some part in 
the seeking of those who are lost, that I may share in the 
joy of my Saviour. For His sake. Amen. 



[129] 



MONDAY 



THE PRODIGAL SON 
INTRODUCTION 

IN this beautiful parable Jesus pictures our heavenly 
Father's love and tenderness for His straying children. 
With forgiving love He watches and waits for the 
wanderer's return. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he said, A certain man had two sons: 
And the younger of them said to his father, 
Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth 
to me. And he divided unto them his living. 

And not many days after the younger son gathered all 
together, and took his journey into a far country, and 
there wasted his substance with riotous living. 

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine 
in that land; and he began to be in want. 

And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that 
country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 

And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks 
that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. 

And when he came to himself, he said, How many 
hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to 
spare, and I perish with hunger ! 

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, 
Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, 

And am no more worthy to be called thy son : make me 
as one of thy hired servants. 

And he arose, and came to his father. But when he 
[130] 



MONDAY 



was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had 
compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 

And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned 
against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy 
to be called thy son. 

But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best 
robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and 
shoes on his feet: 

And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us 
eat, and be merry: 

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was 
lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. 

—Luke 15:11-24. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, may this parable enable me 
to see more plainly than ever how great Thy love 
for Thy children is, and how ready Thou art to 
welcome and forgive those who stray when they turn 
their faces toward Thee. Grant that I may never have 
a desire to separate myself from Thee, and if I do fall 
into temptation, give me a longing to return to Thy 
presence and to the joy of dwelling with Thee. I beseech 
Thee, help all who are sorely tempted, and give them 
strength to remain true to Thee. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[131] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS ANOINTED 

INTRODUCTION 

A FEAST was being given in honor of Jesus by one 
who was once a leper. As they reclined at table, 
Mary came with a flask of very costly ointment and 
poured it on the head of Jesus. He received it gratefully 
and paid a tribute to Mary. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, 
as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an 
alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very pre- 
cious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. 
And there were some that had indignation within 
themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment 
made? 

For it might have been sold for more than three hundred 
pence, and have been given to the poor. And they 
murmured against her. 

And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she 
hath wrought a good work on me. 

For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever 
ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. 
She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand 
to anoint my body to the burying. 

Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be 
preached throughout the whole world, this also that she 
hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her. 

-Mark 14: 3-9. 
[132] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, accept, I pray Thee, my offer- 
ing of praise and gratitude. I never can be 
thankful enough for all Thy goodness toward me. 
I do not come with precious ointment, but with a penitent 
and contrite heart. Thy love for me has been boundless, 
and I would count nothing too costly or precious to offer 
Thee. I give myself to Thee, and pray that Thou wilt 
accept me and make me willing to make any sacrifice in 
Thy loving service. Hear my prayer, for the sake of 
Jesus Christ, my Saviour. Amen. 



[133] 



WEDNESDAY 



TEN LEPERS HEALED 
INTRODUCTION 

WHILE on His way to Jerusalem to attend the 
Passover, Jesus was met by ten lepers, who stood 
at a distance because of their loathsome disease. 
The Saviour heeds their cry for mercy, and heals them. 
Only one of the ten rendered Jesus thanks. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND as he entered into a certain village, there met 
him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar 
off: 

And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, 
have mercy on us. 

And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew 
yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, 
as they went, they were cleansed. 

And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, 
turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, 

And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: 
and he was a Samaritan. 

And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? 
but where are the nine? 

There are not found that returned to give glory to God, 
save this stranger. 

And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath 
made thee whole. — Luke 17: 12-19. 



[134] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

I REJOICE in the privilege of calling upon Thee, my 
heavenly Father. I offer Thee sincere praise and 
thanksgiving for the mercies without number Thou 
hast bestowed upon me. Fix in my mind the teaching 
of this lesson, and may I be reminded afresh of the readi- 
ness of the Saviour to listen to the cry for mercy. While 
I may wonder that nine of the lepers failed to give thanks 
for their healing, help me to ask myself whether I always 
thank Thee for Thy rich blessings. Father, forgive my 
want of gratitude, I beseech Thee. For Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 



[135] 



THURSDAY 



TWO KINDS OF PRAYER 
INTRODUCTION 

IN this parable Jesus teaches how to pray and how not 
to pray. He calls the Pharisee's prayer, praying with 
himself; his prayer never reaches the ear of God. 
The publican humbles himself, and is exalted. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he spake this parable unto certain which trusted 
in themselves that they were righteous, and de- 
spised others : 

Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a 
Pharisee, and the other a publican. 

The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God 
I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, 
unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 

I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 

And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so 
much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast 
saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified 
rather than the other : for every one that exalteth himself 
shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be 
exalted.— Luke 18: 9-14. 



[136] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

THOU Giver of all good, I thank Thee for this parable 
on praying, and I ask Thee to forgive me that my 
prayers are sometimes so faulty. Forbid that I 
should exalt myself in Thy presence, and help me to come 
before Thee humbly, confessing my sins. May I dwell 
much on what Thou givest to me. If I ever speak of 
the portion of my possessions I give to Thee, may it be with 
shame that it is so small, compared with what I receive 
at Thy hands every day of my life. Help me to conse- 
crate myself to Thee, with all that I have. For Jesus' 
sake. Amen. 



1137] 



FRIDAY 



THE RULER'S QUESTION 
INTRODUCTION 

A YOUNG man, a ruler of the local synagogue, came 
running to Jesus and kneeling at his feet, he asked 
what he could do to make sure of eternal life. 
Jesus reminded him of the commandments, and he said 
he had kept them all. Jesus then pointed out one thing 
that he lacked, but he was unwilling to meet that condition, 
and went away grieved. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND when he was gone forth into the way, there came 
one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, 
Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit 
eternal life? 

And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? 
there is none good but one, that is, God. 

Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit 
adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false 
witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. 

And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these 
have I observed from my youth. 

Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, 
One thing thou lackest : go thy way, sell whatsoever thou 
hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure 
in heaven : and come, take up the cross, and follow me. 

And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: 
for he had great possessions. — Mark 10: 17-72. 

[138] 






FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Saviour, that I may come to Thee 
with my questions, and I pray that I may have the 
earnestness of the young ruler who came running to 
Jesus. Help me, my Father, to realize that eternal life 
is Thy free gift to those who follow Thee. Wilt Thou 
help me to follow Jesus at any sacrifice, and forbid that 
I should turn away sorrowfully if Thou dost bid me give 
up all for Thy sake. Grant me grace and strength to 
yield obedience to Thy commands, and may I be able to 
say, "Thy law is my delight." For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[139] 



SATURDAY 



JESUS AND ZACCH^US 

INTRODUCTION 

THE fame of Jesus had reached Zacchseus, the tax 
gatherer, who had gathered riches for himself 
unjustly. He desired to see Jesus, but could not 
because of the crowd that thronged Him. He therefore 
ran ahead and climbed a tree, that he might see Jesus as 
He passed. Jesus saw Zacchseus and told him to come 
down and receive Him in his home. 

SCRIPTURE 

NT), behold, there was a man named Zacchseus, 
which was the chief among the publicans, and he 
was rich. 

And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not 
for the press, because he was little of stature. 

And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore 
tree to see him : for he was to pass that way. 

And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and 
saw him, and said unto him, Zacchseus, make haste, and 
come down, for to day I must abide at thy house. 

And he made haste, and came down; and received him 
joyfully. 

And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That 
he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. 

And Zacchseus stood, and said unto the Lord, Behold, 
Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor: and if I 
have taken any thing from any man by false accusa- 
tion, I restore him fourfold. 

[140] 



SATURDAY 



And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come 
to this house, forasmuch as he also is a son of Abraham. 

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that 
which was lost. — Luke 19: 2-10. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee that those who 
earnestly seek Jesus are sure of finding Him. 
I praise Thee that He is the Friend of sinners, and 
that He is ever seeking them and is ready to abide with 
them if they will receive Him. As Zacchseus, in the 
presence of Jesus, saw his own sinfulness, so may I, when 
the Saviour draws near me, realize my own unworthiness 
ana make humble confession. I pray that Jesus may 
abide in my home, and that all that transpires in it may 
be well pleasing to Him. For His sake. Amen. 



[141] 



SUNDAY 



PARABLE OF THE TALENTS 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS pictures a man about to leave home for a long 
absence. He places in the hands of his servants 
varying sums, according to the ability of each one, 
and they are to make use of the funds in his service. 
When the day of reckoning came, it was found that two 
had been faithful to the trust, and they were rewarded, 
while one made no use of his portion, and consequently 
suffered loss. 

SCRIPTURE 

FOR the kingdom of heaven is as a man* travelling into 
a far country, who called his own servants, and 
delivered unto them his goods. 
And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and 
to another one; to every man according to his several 
ability; and straightway took his journey. 

Then he that had received the five talents went and 
traded with the same, and made them other five talents. 
And likewise he that had received two, he also gained 
other two. 

But he that had received one went and digged in the 
earth, and hid his lord's money. 

After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and 
reckoneth with them. 

And so he that had received five talents came and 
brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst 
[142] 



SUNDAY 



unto me five talents : behold, I have gained beside them 
five talents more. 

His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful 
servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will 
make thee ruler over many things : enter thou into the 
joy of thy lord. 

He also that had received two talents came and said, 
Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents : behold, I 
have gained two other talents beside them, 

His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful 
servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will 
make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the 
joy of thy lord. 

Then he which had received the one talent came and 
said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping 
where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast 
not strawed: 

And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the 
earth : lo, there thou hast that is thine. — Matt. 25 : 14-25. 

PRAYER 

OLORD my God, I thank Thee for the blessings of 
each day, and that I am never beyond Thy thought 
or care. May I realize afresh Thy confidence in 
me, manifested by my being intrusted with such respon- 
sibility. Whether Thou hast bestowed upon me means 
or other gifts, help me to remember that I am Thy steward, 
and may I so employ what Thou hast placed in my hands, 
that it shall yield abundantly, and I may receive Thy 
commendation. In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[143] 



MONDAY 

THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY 

INTRODUCTION 

ON this Palm Sunday morning, as Jesus was about 
to enter Jerusalem, He was met by throngs of 
pilgrims who had come up to the feast. They 
waved branches of palms, and with glad shouts they pro- 
claimed Him king. He was, in very truth, the King of 



SCRIPTURE 

ON the next day much people that were come to the 
feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to 
Jerusalem, 

Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet 
him, and cried, Hosanna : Blessed is the King of Israel 
that cometh in the name of the Lord. 

And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; 
as it is written, 

Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, 
sitting on an ass's colt. 

These things understood not his disciples at the first: 
but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that 
these things were written of him, and that they had done 
these things unto him. 

The people therefore that was with him when he called 
Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, 
bare record. 

For this cause the people also met him, for that they 
heard that he had done this miracle. — John 12: 12-18. 
[144] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

THOU who art the King of kings, help me to join the 
praise of those who sang, "Blessed is the King of 
Israel." May I see in the triumphal entry of Jesus 
into Jerusalem amid the hosannas of the people the 
promise of Thy universal reign, when all men shall pro- 
claim Thee the Christ, the Lord of all. I beseech Thee, 
my Father, help me to do all I can to make the Saviour 
known. May His image be stamped upon my heart, 
that He shall be seen in my life each day. Forgive my 
want of enthusiasm in Thy service, and may I constantly 
rejoice in the presence of Him who is the Saviour of the 
world. For His sake. Amen. 



[145] 



TUESDAY 



THE WIDOW'S MITE 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS sat down in the temple near the treasury to 
rest. The stream of worshipers casting in their 
offerings could not but be observed. As He notes 
the gifts, both large and small, He commends the one who 
evidently gave the least, for it was all she had. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld 
how the people cast money into the treasury: and 
many that were rich cast in much. 
And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in 
two mites, which make a farthing. 

And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto 
them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath 
cast more in, than all they which have cast into the 
treasury: 

For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of 
her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living. 

—Mark 12: 41-^.4. 



[146] 



TUESDAY 



P&AYER 

MY Lord and Master, accept my offering of praise 
and thanksgiving for all thy lovingkindness 
toward me. Teach me the lesson my Saviour 
would have me learn from the offerings in the temple. 
May it be plain to me that giving is an act of worship, 
and that if Jesus beholds me when I pray, He must see 
me when I give. I know that it is not the greatness of 
the gift that makes the offering most acceptable, but the 
greatness of the love that prompts it. May I be encour- 
aged, then, if I am able to give but little, for in the hands 
of my Saviour it may accomplish much. Help me, Lord, 
to be generous and unselfish. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[147] 



WEDNESDAY 

THE WISE AND FOOLISH VIRGINS 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS shows how it will be at His final coming, by- 
picturing the maidens who play and sing at a wed- 
ding procession. Half of them were wise, for they 
were prepared, while the others were foolish and unpre- 
pared, and they were denied entrance to the wedding. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto 
ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth 
to meet the bridegroom. 

And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 

They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no 
oil with them: 

But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 

While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and 
slept. 

And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the 
bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. 

Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 

And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; 
for our lamps are gone out. 

But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be 
not enough for us and you : but go ye rather to them that 
sell and buy for yourselves. 

And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; 
and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: 
and the door was shut. 

[148] 



WEDNESDAY 



Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, 
Lord, open to us. 

But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I 
know you not. 

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the 
hour wherein the Son of man cometh. — Matt. 25 : 1-13. 

PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, for the promised coming 
of Jesus Christ, and I praise Thee that He has already 
come into my heart and life. I beseech Thee, in His 
name, help me to be prepared, in whatever manner He 
may come to me as one of His followers. If He comes 
bidding me to perform some difficult task, may I be ready 
to give immediate and cheerful response. If He invites 
me to a closer and more blessed companionship with Him, 
may I be ready to enter into the joy that such fellowship 
affords. Give me grace to be watchful for opportunities 
for service. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[149] 



THURSDAY 



THE GREAT SEPARATION 

INTRODUCTION 

OUR Lord gives a glimpse of the final judgment, 
when He will come with the angelic host to sit on 
His throne. He divides those who come before 
Him into two groups. Those on the right He bids to a 
heavenly inheritance, for they have shown their love for 
Him by ministering to His children. Those on the left 
failed in this manifestation of love, and they are denied 
the inheritance that might have been theirs. 

SCRIPTURE 

WHEN the Son of man shall come in his glory, and 
all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit 
upon the throne of his glory: 
And before him shall be gathered all nations : and he 
shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd 
divideth his sheep from the goats : 

And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the 
goats on the left. 

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, 
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom 
prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was 
thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye 
took me in: 

Naked, and ye clothed me : I was sick, and ye visited 
me : I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, 
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THURSDAY 



when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, 
and gave thee drink? 

When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or 
naked, and clothed thee? 

Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto 
thee? 

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I 
say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the 
least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 

—Matt. 25:31-40. 

PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I thank Thee for the promise 
of an inheritance that fadeth not away, reserved 
in heaven for Thy followers. I profess to be a 
disciple of Jesus, and would gladly minister to Him, were 
He today walking among men. Teach me, I pray Thee, 
that I may express my love for Him by ministering to 
those who are His, and that I do not need to seek far for 
opportunities to show thus my love for the Saviour. 
Help me to be active in good works, and at last may I 
hear Jesus say, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one 
of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom 
prepared for you." In Jesus' name. Amen. 



[151] 



FRIDAY 



PREPARING FOR THE PASSOVER 

INTRODUCTION 

THE time for the Passover had come, and Peter and 
John asked Jesus where it should be prepared. He 
told them that when they entered Jerusalem they 
would see a man carrying a pitcher of water, and if they 
followed him into the house he entered they would find 
the room where Jesus was to partake of the feast with 
His disciples. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN came the day of unleavened bread, when the 
passover must be killed. 
And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and pre- 
pare us the passover, that we may eat. 

And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we 
prepare? 

And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered 
into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a 
pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he 
entereth in. 

And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The 
Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, 
where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? 

And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: 
there make ready. 

And they went, and found as he had said unto them: 
and they made ready the passover. — Luke 22: 7-13. 

[152] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

MY God and Father, I thank Thee for Thy great 
promises, and that not one of them can fail. 
From the experience of Peter and John, who 
found the promise of Jesus exactly fulfilled, may I learn 
that, whatever my Saviour bids me do, I am sure of the 
fulfilment of His promise. I thank Thee for the intimate 
fellowship these two disciples had with Jesus, and for 
what it fitted them to do in His name. Help me to have 
a closer walk with my Saviour. Thou knowest that I need 
Him always, that I may be faithful in the work He has 
given me to do. Abide with me, my Lord and Master. 
Amen. 



[153] 



SATURDAY 



BETRAYAL FORETOLD 
INTRODUCTION 

THE Passover is being observed in the house previously 
designated by Jesus. As they reclined at the table, 
Jesus, looking at the disciples, declared that one of 
the Twelve was about to betray Him. Startled and 
grieved, each one asked, "Is it I?" When Judas asked 
the question, Jesus answered, "Thou hast said" it. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOW when the even was come, he sat down with the 
twelve. 
And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto 
you, that one of you shall betray me. 

And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every 
one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? 

And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand 
with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. 

The Son of man goeth as it is written of him : but woe 

unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! 

it had been good for that man if he had not been born. 

Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, 

Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said. 

—Matt. 26:20-25. 



[154] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

LOVING Father, I know not how to pray as I ought, 
and I ask Thee to guide me by Thy Holy Spirit. I 
am solemnized by the thought that one of the chosen 
followers of Jesus could betray Him into the hands of His 
enemies. May I see that entertaining an evil thought was 
the beginning of the betrayer's sin, and that by wilful 
wrong-doing he came at last to deny his Lord and Master. 
I entreat Thee, my Father, help me to resist evil, and when 
a wrong thought comes into my mind, give me grace to 
banish it and not to allow it to bear fruit in an act that 
is sinful. May I realize how weak I am in my own 
strength, and look to Thee for help whenever I am tempted 
to do wrong. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[155] 



SUNDAY 



INSTITUTION OF THE LORD'S 
SUPPER 

INTRODUCTION 

JUDAS had left the table and gone out into darkness, 
and Jesus now instituted the Lord's Supper. About 
to leave His disciples, He establishes this memorial 
of Himself: a reminder of the merits of His death, and an 
enduring token of His love. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND when the hour was come, he sat down, and the 
twelve apostles with him. 

And he said unto them, With desire I have 
desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: 

For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until 
it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. 

And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take 
this, and divide it among yourselves: 

For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the 
vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. 

And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and 
gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given 
for you : this do in remembrance of me. 

Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is 
the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. 

But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with 
me on the table.— Luke 22: 14-21. 



[156] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

I PRAISE Thee, God, for the gift of a Saviour, and 
I pray that the Lord's Supper may have a larger and 
deeper meaning to me, as I remember that He estab- 
lished it that it might prove a bond between Himself and 
His disciples. Help me to value the privilege of sitting at 
the table of the Lord, and as I eat the bread and drink the 
wine may I be filled with a sense of His great love in 
suffering on the cross for me. I earnestly pray that He 
may have a larger place in my life, and that I may think 
more constantly of Him and love Him more deeply. For 
His sake. Amen. 



[157] 



MONDAY 



JESUS COMFORTS HIS DISCIPLES 
INTRODUCTION 

THE members of that little band of Christ's followers 
were saddened by the thought that He was so soon 
to leave them. He was touched by their sorrow, 
and, instead of Himself seeking comfort from them, He 
seeks to reassure and comfort them. His matchless words 
have given solace and comfort to myriads of troubled 
souls. 

SCRIPTURE 

LET not your heart be troubled : ye believe in God, 
believe also in me. 

In my Father's house are many mansions : if it 
were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a 
place for you. 

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come 
again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there 
ye may be also. 

And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. 

Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither 
thou goest; and how can we know the way? 

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and 
the life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 

If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father 
also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen 
him. — John 14: 1-7. 



[158] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

I THANK Thee, my Father, for these words of Jesus 
I have just read, and for the loving sympathy they 
express for Thy troubled children. I praise Thee 
for the promise of a heavenly home. Help me to be 
grateful for the home Thou hast provided for me here, 
and may I do all I can for its peace and welfare. I need 
Thy presence to aid me to set a right example, and to 
contribute my share to the comfort and happiness of each 
member of the family. I pray for grace to look to Jesus 
whenever I am troubled or perplexed. My Lord and 
Master, I would love Thee better and serve Thee with 
greater faithfulness. For Thy name's sake. Amen. 



[159] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS PRAYS FOR PETER 
INTRODUCTION 

THE hour for the betrayal of Jesus was drawing near, 
and He was having His last discourse with the 
Eleven. The loving but impetuous Peter is warned 
of the danger of his forsaking the Master, and Jesus 
assures him that He has prayed for him. Peter, still 
confident of his loyalty, said that others might forsake 
Jesus but that he was ready to die with Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath 
desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 
But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail 
not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. 
And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, 
both into prison, and to death. 

And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow 
this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou 
knowest me. 

And he said unto them, when I sent you without purse, 
and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything? And they 
said, Nothing. 

Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, 
let him take it, and likewise his scrip : and he that hath 
no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. 

For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet 
be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the 
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TUESDAY 



transgressors: for the things concerning me have an 
end. 

And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And 
he said unto them, It is enough. — Luke 22: 31-38. 

PRAYER 

ALMIGHTY God, my heavenly Father, I thank 
Thee for the encouragement and strength afforded 
Thy followers by the fact that Jesus prayed for 
Peter. The Saviour knows the temptations I shall meet, 
and that Satan will try to overcome me. If I do fall, 
Lord, may the power and love of Jesus Christ restore me. 
Keep me from self-confidence, help me to realize my own 
weakness, and may all my trust be in Thee. I am per- 
suaded that the tempter cannot triumph over me, for 
Jesus prays for me. Hear my prayer, for Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 



[161] 



WEDNESDAY 



THE AGONY IN GETHSEMANE 
INTRODUCTION 

JESUS went directly to Gethsemane, though He 
realized that His enemies knew that He was in the 
habit of going there to pray. He now prayed in 
such an agony that His sweat appeared like drops of 
blood. God sent an angel to strengthen Him and, though 
suffering almost beyond human endurance, Jesus was 
able to say, "Not my will, but thine, be done." 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the 
mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. 
And when he was at the place, he said unto them, 
Pray that ye enter not into temptation. 

And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, 
and kneeled down, and prayed, 

Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from 
me: nevertheless, not my will, but thine, be done. 

And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, 
strengthening him. 

And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly : and 
his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down 
to the ground. 

And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to 
his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, 

And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest 
ye enter into temptation. — Luke 22 : 39-46. 
[162] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

MOST loving Father, the scene presented in what I 
have just read cannot but touch my deepest 
sympathies. I have thought that my Saviour's 
greatest agony was upon the cross, but I may believe 
that He suffered most in Gethsemane. I praise Thee 
for the strengthening angel Thou didst send in answer to 
His prayer for deliverance. As never before may I 
realize what Jesus suffered in my behalf, and may it call 
from the deepest recesses of my heart such love for Him 
as I have never before experienced. Hear my prayer, 
I beseech Thee, in His name. Amen. 



[163] 



THURSDAY 



JESUS BETRAYED 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER His third prayer in Gethsemane Jesus 
aroused His sleeping disciples, and bade them go 
out with Him to meet Judas and his band. They 
came armed, to take Him by force, but when Jesus said 
that He was the one whom they sought they fell to the 
ground, awed by the majesty of His presence. His dis- 
ciples fled, and Jesus was led away alone. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, 
Sleep on now, and take your rest : it is enough, the 
hour is come : behold, the Son of man is betrayed 
into the hands of sinners. 
Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand. 
And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, 
one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with 
swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes 
and the elders. 

And he that betrayed him had given them a token, 
saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: take 
him, and lead him away safely. 

And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to 
him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him. 
And they laid their hands on him, and took him. 
And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote 
a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. 
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come 
[164] 



THURSDAY 



out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to 
take me? 

I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye 
took me not : but the scriptures must be fulfilled. 

And they all forsook him and fled. — Mark 14: 41-50. 

PRAYER 

HOLY Father, I cannot wonder that fear overcame 
those who went to Gethsemane to seize Jesus, 
nor can I help being moved with compassion as I 
think of the Saviour going out to meet them and giving 
Himself into their hands, though more than twelve legions 
of angels were ready to obey His summons. May I see 
that He could save others and save Himself, and that He 
gave His life freely that others might have life and peace 
and joy. I pray Thee, my Father, help me to be ready 
to surrender everything, if need be, to show my love for 
Him who gave Himself for me. In His name. Amen. 



[165] 



FRIDAY 



PETER DENIES JESUS 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER Jesus was taken, they led Him away to the 
high priest's house, and Peter followed at a distance. 
There was a fire in the open court, and Peter sat 
near it with the enemies of Jesus. He was thrice accused 
of being one of Jesus' followers, and each time he denied 
his Lord. Jesus looked upon Peter, and he went out 
from His presence weeping. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN took they him, and led him, and brought 
him into the high priest's house. And Peter fol- 
lowed afar off. 
And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the 
hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among 
them. 

But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and 
earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also 
with him. 

And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. 
And after a little while another saw him, and said, 
Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. 
And about the space of one hour after, another con- 
fidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was 
with him : for he is a Galilsean. 

And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. 
And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. 
And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And 
[166] 



FRIDAY 



Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said 
unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me 
thrice. 
And Peter went out, and wept bitterly. — Luke 22: 54-62. 

PRAYER 

HEAVENLY Father, I pray that the experience of 
Peter may teach me how to be a true follower of 
my Saviour. Give me grace to keep near Him 
and not follow Him afar off. Keep me from seeking the 
company of His enemies, and forbid that by word or act 
I should ever deny my Lord. Thou knowest how weak 
I am, and how inclined I am to be self-reliant, rather than 
to place my reliance upon Thee. I praise Thee for that 
pitying look of Jesus. May I think of it when I am 
tempted to do anything that approaches denial of Him, 
and may I remember that He prays for me, that my faith 
may not fail. In His name. Amen. 



[167] 



SATURDAY 



JESUS SCOURGED 
INTRODUCTION 

UPON Jesus was inflicted the cruel punishment of 
lashes upon the bare back, the usual means of 
extorting confessions from criminals. Such torture 
was sometimes a preliminary to crucifixion. Adding to 
this indignity, the soldiers smote Him and spit upon Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. 
And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and 
put it on his head, and they put on him a purple 
robe, 

And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him 
with their hands. 

Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, 
Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that 
I find no fault in him. 

Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, 
and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold 
the man! 

When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, 
they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate 
saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I 
find no fault in him. 

The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law 
he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. 

—John 19: 1-7. 

[168] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

OGOD, my Father, I cannot contemplate the humil- 
iation and pain of Jesus without a feeling of shame 
that there could be found among men those who 
could so treat the Son of God. Help me to see the great- 
ness of the love of Jesus in enduring all this uncomplain- 
ingly. May I also see what a dreadful thing sin is, that 
it could manifest itself in such cruelty to the meek and 
lowly Saviour. Grant, I beseech Thee, that I may never 
do anything to cause Jesus pain. Hear me, O Lord, 
for His sake. Amen. 






[169] 



SUNDAY 



JESUS DELIVERED TO BE 
CRUCIFIED 

INTRODUCTION 

PILATE tried to release Jesus, but His enemies had 
determined that He should be crucified, and Pilate 
yielded to their demand, fearing that he might lose 
his position if he did otherwise. Jesus was therefore 
delivered into the hands of His enemies and led away. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him : 
but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man 
go, thou art not Cesar's friend : whosoever maketh 
himself a king speaketh against Cesar. 

When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought 
Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place 
that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gab- 
batha. 

And it was the preparation of the passover, and about 
the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your 
King! 

But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, 
crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your 
King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but 
Cesar. 

Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be cruci- 
fied. And they took Jesus, and led him away. 

And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called 
[170] 



SUNDAY 



the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgo- 
tha: 

Where they crucified him, and two others with him, on 
either side one, and Jesus in the midst. — John 19: 12-18. 

PRAYER 

HOLY Father, help me to remember that the Lord 
Jesus Christ gave Himself a ransom for me, and 
that through Him I have been redeemed. Truly 
He was despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows 
and acquainted with grief. He was oppressed, and He 
was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth. As I dwell 
on the closing hours of His life, may I have a deeper sense 
of gratitude to my Saviour for His great love. I would 
consecrate myself anew to Him, and try to do His will 
more perfectly. My Father, I pray for a closer walk 
with Him each day. For His sake. Amen. 



[171] 



MONDAY 



ON THE WAY TO CALVARY 

INTRODUCTION 

THE Roman custom of compelling the offender to 
carry his own cross to the place of execution was 
followed with Jesus. Bloodstained and exhausted 
by the treatment He had received, He had insufficient 
ttrength for the burden and they compelled a passer-by 
so carry it . 

SCRIPTURE 

AND they compel one Simon, a Cyrenian, who passed 
by, coming out of the country, the father of Alex- 
ander and Rufus, to bear his cross. 

And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, 
being interpreted, the place of a skull. 

And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: 
but he received it not. 

And when they had crucified him, they parted his 
garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should 
take. 

And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. 

And the superscription of his accusation was written 
over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 

And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his 
right hand, and the other on his left. 

And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was 
numbered with the transgressors. — Mark 15 : 21-28. 



[172] 



MONDAY 



PRAYER 

O LOVING Father, I am deeply stirred as I follow 
anew that walk of the Saviour to Golgotha, bearing 
His cross alone. Thou knowest that I would 
gladly have shared the burden with Him. Help me to 
see that it is possible for me to show my love for Him in a 
manner quite as acceptable, by obeying His command 
to take up my cross daily and follow Him. There are 
things He bids me do that I shrink from doing, because 
some personal sacrifice is required. I pray for grace to 
hold myself in readiness for any service it is possible for 
me to render my Lord. In His name. Amen. 



[173] 



TUESDAY 



JESUS ON THE CROSS 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER Jesus was nailed to the cross, His first words 
were a prayer for the forgiveness of those who 
inflicted upon Him such cruel torture. The 
soldiers mocked Him, and bid Him save Himself if He 
were the King of the Jews. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they 
know not what they do. And they parted his 
raiment, and cast lots. 
And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also 
with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him 
save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. 

And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and 

offering him vinegar, 

And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. 

And a superscription also was written over him in 

letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE 

KING OF THE JEWS.— Luke 23: 34-38. 



[174] 



TUESDAY 



PRAYER 

THOU God of all grace, I cannot but be solemnized 
as I look upon Jesus as He hangs upon the cross. 
O that I might better understand His forgiving 
love, as He asks forgiveness for those who crucified Him! 
May I now know the meaning of His command, "Love 
your enemies, pray for them that despitefully use you." 
My Father, the Saviour has shown me, in the midst of 
untold suffering, that it is possible to have a forgiving 
spirit toward those who vent their hatred upon Thy 
children. I entreat Thee that this revelation concerning 
forgiveness may lead me to try to forgive as I would be 
forgiven. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 






[175] 



WEDNESDAY 

JESUS FORGIVES A MALEFACTOR 
INTRODUCTION 

ONE of the robbers who were crucified with Jesus 
mocked Him, but soon the other one saw in Jesus 
the Son of God and prayed to be remembered by 
Him. His prayer was answered, and the Saviour prom- 
ised that he should be with Him in Paradise that day. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND one of the malefactors which were hanged railed 
on him saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself 
and us. 

But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost 
not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condem- 
nation? 

And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of 
our deeds : but this man hath done nothing amiss. 

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou 
comest into thy kingdom. 

And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To 
day shalt thou be with me in paradise. 

And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness 
over all the earth until the ninth hour. 

And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple 
was rent in the midst. 

And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, 
Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit : and having 
said thus, he gave up the ghost. — Luke 23 : 39-46. 
[176] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

THOU loving Father, may this scene on Calvary- 
make a lasting impression on my mind and heart. 
I praise Thee for the hope given to those who have 
transgressed by the forgiveness found by the dying thief 
on the cross, even though he had mocked the Saviour. 
May I learn that sincere repentance and faith are sure 
to bring forgiveness from a loving and compassionate 
Saviour. I beseech Thee, keep me from yielding to 
temptation, and help me to be true to Thee always. May 
Thy Holy Spirit guide me this day. For Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 



[177] 






THURSDAY 



JESUS YIELDS HIS LIFE 
INTRODUCTION 

AMONG the women who stood near the cross were 
the mother of Jesus and her sister. John, the 
beloved disciple, also stood there, and into his 
hands the Saviour committed the keeping of his mother. 
After Jesus had received the vinegar offered Him, He 
gave the cry of victory, "It is finished,'' and yielded His 
life. 

SCRIPTURE 

NOW there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, 
and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, 
and Mary Magdalene. 
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple 
standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, 
Woman, behold thy son ! 

Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! 
And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own 
home. 

After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now 
accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, 
I thirst. 

Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar : and they 
filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and 
put it to his mouth. 

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, 
It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the 
ghost.— John 19:25-30. 

[178] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

MY LORD and Master, I praise Thee that the 
work for which Thou didst leave the glory Thou 
hadst with the Father, the redemption of the 
world, was finished on the cross. I pray for the fulfilment 
of the promise, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, 
will draw all men unto me." My heavenly Father, help 
me to comprehend the significance of the cross of Christ, 
and by the aid of Thy Holy Spirit may I be able to have 
some part in the winning of others to the love and service 
of Him who died that we might live, Jesus Christ, the 
Saviour. Amen. 



[179] 



FRIDAY 



THE PIERCED SIDE 

INTRODUCTION 

BECAUSE the Jews wished to prepare for their 
observance of the Sabbath, and because to allow 
Jesus to remain unburied would defile ceremonial 
purity, soldiers were sent to complete the brutal work o^ 
the executioners. Jesus being dead, a spear was thrust 
in His side, causing blood and water to flow out. 

SCRIPTURE 

THE Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, 
that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on 
the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high 
day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and 
that they might be taken away. 

Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, 
and of the other which was crucified with him. 

But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead 
already, they brake not his legs : 

But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and 
forthwith came there out blood and water. 

And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: 
and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. 

For these things were done, that the scripture should be 
fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. 

And again another scripture saith, They shall look on 
him whom they pierced. — John 19: 31-37. 



[180] 



FRIDAY 



PRAYER 

INFINITE Father, I bow before Thee in deep humility, 
for I realize my unworthiness to come into Thy 
presence. Coming in the name of Jesus Christ, Thy 
Son, I am assured that Thou wilt listen to my prayer. 
Forgive whatever Thou dost behold in me that is weak 
and sinful. May the wounded side of my Saviour remind 
me afresh that His blood was shed for me, that my heart 
might be cleansed and purified in Thy sight. I renew my 
consecration to Thee, and, by Thy grace, I will try to 
manifest my love for Jesus by striving to do His will each 
day. In His name. Amen. 



[181] 



SATURDAY 



THE BURIAL OF JESUS 
INTRODUCTION 

AMONG those who followed Jesus to Calvary was 
Joseph, a rich member of the Jewish council. He 
was a secret disciple, and did not vote for the con- 
demnation of Jesus. He begged Pilate for the body of 
Jesus and, removing it from the cross, he placed it in a 
tomb he had prepared for himself. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a 
counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just: 
(The same had not consented to the counsel and 
deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: 
who also himself waited for the kingdom of God. 

This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of 
Jesus. 

And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid 
it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never 
man before was laid. 

And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew 
on. 

And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, 
followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his 
body was laid. 

And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; 
and rested the sabbath day according to the command- 
ment.— Luke 23: 50-56. 



[182] 



SATURDAY 



PRAYER 

HOLY Father, I praise Thee for Thy word, and for 
its revelations concerning the Saviour. I thank 
Thee for this secret disciple of Jesus, who honored 
Him in His death, though he feared to confess his love for 
the Master while He lived. I pray that I may never be 
afraid or ashamed to let it be known that I am a disciple 
of Jesus Christ. I glory in the assurance that He is not 
ashamed of me, notwithstanding all my want of loyalty 
and devotion to Him. Help me, Lord, to live so that 
others may know that I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. In 
His name. Amen. 



[183] 



SUNDAY 



THE EMPTY TOMB 
INTRODUCTION 

VERY early on this first Easter Sabbath morning, 
Mary hastened to the tomb of Jesus. She found 
it empty, and immediately ran to tell Peter. Peter 
and John ran to the sepulcher and, entering it, found the 
grave clothes, but the body of Jesus was not there. 

SCRIPTURE 

THE first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene 
early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and 
seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. 

Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to 
the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, 
They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and 
we know not where they have laid him. 

Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and 
came to the sepulchre. 

So they ran both together: and the other disciple did 
outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. 

And he, stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen 
clothes lying; yet went he not in. 

Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into 
the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie. 

And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with 
the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. 

Then went in also that other disciple, which came first 
to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed. — John 20: 
1-8. 

[184] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

MY heavenly Father, I rejoice this morning that 
the tomb where the disciples sought Jesus was 
found empty, and that He who had suffered and 
died now lived again. I praise Thee for His victory over 
death, and for the glorious hope of the resurrection Thou 
hast given to all mankind. I give Thee thanks that I may 
share this hope, and that I need not fear death or the 
grave, for I am assured that Thou wilt grant me deliv- 
erance and eternal joy. Blessed be the God and Father 
of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant 
mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the 
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheri- 
tance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not 
away. Amen. 



[185] 



MONDAY 



JESUS APPEARS TO MARY 

INTRODUCTION 

MARY stood at the tomb of Jesus in tears. Stooping 
to look into the sepulcher, she beheld two angels, 
who asked her why she wept. On turning about 
she saw Jesus, but did not recognize Him until she heard 
Him speak her name. 

SCRIPTURE 

BUT Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: 
and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into 
the sepulchre, 

And seeth two angels in white, sitting, the one at the 
head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus 
had lain. 

And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? 
She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my 
Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. 

And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, 
and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. 

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom 
seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith 
unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where 
thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. 

Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and 
saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 

Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet 
ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say 
[186] 



MONDAY 



unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; 
and to my God, and your God. 

Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she 
had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things 
unto her.— John 20: 11-18. 

PRAYER 

HEAVENLY Father, Thou who didst raise the 
Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, I offer Thee 
grateful praise that through Him Thou hast given 
me hope of everlasting life. I know that my Redeemer 
liveth, and that He is the resurrection and the life. I 
may not behold the risen Lord, as Mary beheld Him, but 
I may, like her, spread the joyful tidings that Jesus lives. 
I beseech Thee that He may live in me, and that I may 
find in Him my life, my strength, and my hope. Help 
me to walk in the footsteps of my Master this day. For 
His sake. Amen. 



[187] 



TUESDAY 



THE WALK TO EMMAUS 
INTRODUCTION 

ON the afternoon of that resurrection day two of the 
disciples were returning home to Emmaus. Walk- 
ing in sadness, they were talking of what had tran- 
spired. One whom they thought a stranger joined them, 
and explained the scripture to them. Not until He was 
eating with them were their eyes opened, and then He 
vanished out of their sight. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND, behold, two of them went that same day to a 
village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem 
about threescore furlongs. 
And they talked together of all these things which had 
happened. 

And it came to pass, that, while they communed 
together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went 
with them. 

But their eyes were holden that they should not know 
him. 

And he said unto them, What manner of communica- 
tions are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, 
and are sad? 

And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answer- 
ing said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, 
and hast not known the things which are come to pass 
there in these days? 
And he said unto them, What things? And they said 
[188] 



TUESDAY 



unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a 
prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the 
people: 

And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him 
to be condemned to death, and have crucified him 

And they drew nigh unto the village whither they went: 
and he made as though he would have gone further. 

But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us : for it 
is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went 
in to tarry with them. 

And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he 
took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. 

And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he 
vanished out of their sight.— Luke 24: 13-20, 28-31. 

PRAYER 

HOLY Father, I thank Thee that I may have the 
presence of Jesus each hour of the day. I need 
Him when sorrow is present, and I cannot know 
true joy without Him. I pray that He may walk with 
me today, and that He may have a place in all my plans 
and in all my undertakings. I would more often be 
found talking of the things concerning the Saviour, and 
I pray that He may open up to me the Scriptures, that I 
may have a better understanding of Thy word. Heavenly 
Father, grant that the Lord Jesus Christ may abide with 
me, and be my constant Companion and Guide. For His 
sake. Amen. 



[189] 



WEDNESDAY 



JESUS APPEARS TO DISCIPLES 

INTRODUCTION 

ON the evening of the same day that He appeared to 
Mary, Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were 
gathered for the evening meal. Fast closed doors 
did not prevent the Saviour's entry. He brought them a 
message of peace, and again assured them that they were 
His messengers. 

SCRIPTURE 

THEN the same day at evening, being the first day of 
the week, when the doors were shut where the 
disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came 
Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace 
be unto you. 

And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his 
hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when 
they saw the Lord. 

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: 
as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 

And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and 
saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 

Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; 
and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained. 

But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was 
not with them when Jesus came. 

The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have 
seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall 
see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger 
into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his 
side, I will not believe. — John 20: 19-25. 
[190] 



WEDNESDAY 



PRAYER 

MY Lord and Master, I praise Thee for that mani- 
festation of Thyself at the table of the disciples, 
and for Thy salutation, "Peace be unto you." I 
thank Thee that Thou hast spoken these same words to 
me, in answer to prayer for forgiveness and in times of 
trouble and sorrow. Forbid that I should ever let my 
heart be troubled, but may I have that peace that the 
world cannot give, or take from me. Help me to realize 
that I am one of thy messengers, and may I find joy 
in making Thee known to others. For Thy name's sake. 
Amen. 



[191] 



THURSDAY 



JESUS AGAIN APPEARS TO 
DISCIPLES 

INTRODUCTION 

A WEEK later, the Eleven were gathered on the 
Sabbath evening. Thomas, who was absent on 
the previous occasion, was now present. He could 
not credit what had been told him by those who had seen 
the Lord. Thomas believed when he saw Jesus and when 
he heard His voice and saw His wounds. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND after eight days again his disciples were within, 
and Thomas with them : then came Jesus, the doors 
being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace 
be unto you. 

Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and 
behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust 
it into my side; and be not faithless, but believing. 

And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord 
and my God. 

Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen 
me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not 
seen, and yet have believed. 

And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of 
his disciples, which are not written in this book: 

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus 
is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might 
have life through his name. — John 20: 26-31. 
[192] 



THURSDAY 



PRAYER 

I PRAISE Thee, my Father, that on beholding the 
risen Christ the doubts of Thomas were removed, and 
that he was able to exclaim, "My Lord and my God." 
May this teach me that Jesus is very patient with those 
who are not fully assured as to the truths of Thy word. I 
pray that the Saviour may manifest Himself to all such 
doubting ones, and on beholding His wound prints may 
they acknowledge Him as their Lord and Master. I 
ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour. 
Amen. 



[193] 



FRIDAY 



JESUS APPEARS TO FISHERMEN 
INTRODUCTION 

SEVEN of the disciples of Jesus had resumed their 
occupation as fishermen. The night's toil had 
yielded nothing, and they were returning to land 
when they saw a Stranger on the shore, who told them 
where to drop the net. They obeyed, and the net was 
soon overflowing with fish. Then the disciples recognised 
Jesus. 

SCRIPTURE 

AFTER these things Jesus shewed himself again to 
the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise 
shewed he himself. 
There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called 
Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons 
of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. 

Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say 
unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and 
entered into a ship immediately; and that night they 
caught nothing. 

But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on 
the shore : but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. 

Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any 
meat? They answered him, No. 

And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side 
of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and 
now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of 
fishes. 

[194] 



FRIDAY 



Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto 
Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that 
it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he 
was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea. 

And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they 
were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) 
dragging the net with fishes. — John 21 : 1-8. 



PRAYER 

MOST gracious God, my Father, again I have the 
great privilege of coming into Thy presence. Be 
pleased to accept my offering of thanksgiving for 
all Thy blessings, and grant me grace and guidance for all 
the duties Thou dost give me to perform. I praise Thee 
that it is possible to have the Saviour's presence in our 
everyday occupations. As the fishermen of Galilee found 
reward in obeying the word of Jesus, and as the Psalmist 
found rich reward in obedience to Thy commandments, so 
may I find joy in doing the things Thou dost bid me to do. 
For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



[195] 



SATURDAY 



PETER'S LOVE AFFIRMED 
INTRODUCTION 

AFTER the disciples had brought ashore their great 
catch of fish, Jesus invited them to eat with Him. 
As the simple morning meal ended, Jesus asked 
Peter three times if he loved Him, and each time Peter 
declared his love for his Lord. Jesus told Peter how he 
could show his love for Him, and He also indicated how 
Peter would die for Him. 

SCRIPTURE 

SO when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, 
Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? 
He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I 
love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of 
Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; 
thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed 
my sheep. 

He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, 
lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto 
him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto 
him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that 
I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 

Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, 
thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: 
but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy 
hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither 
thou wouldest not. 

[196] 



SATURDAY 



This spake he signifying by what death he should glorify 
God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, 
Follow me.— John 21: 15-19. 

PRAYER 

ETERNAL God and Father, I praise Thee for this 
appearance of Jesus to the disciples, and for what 
He said to Peter. May I be impressed anew by the 
forgiving love of the Saviour in restoring Peter to his 
former place as an apostle of Jesus Christ, even though 
he had so lately denied Him. I pray that when the 
question comes to me, "Lovest thou Me?" I may be 
able to say, "Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee." 
Grant that I may constantly manifest my love for Jesus 
by being faithful to the work He has given me to do. 
For His sake. Amen. 



[197] 



SUNDAY 



THE ASCENSION 
INTRODUCTION 

ON the fortieth day after His resurrection Jesus led 
the disciples from Jerusalem out near Bethany 
where, with hands uplifted in blessing, He was 
parted from them. As the disciples gazed heavenward 
two angels appeared and spoke to them. They then 
returned to Jerusalem with joy. 

SCRIPTURE 

AND he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he 
lifted up his hands, and blessed them. 

And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was 
parted from them, and carried up into heaven. 

—Luke 24: 50, 51. 

And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as 
he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white 
apparel; 

Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing 
up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from 
you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have 
seen him go into heaven. — Acts 1: 10, 11. 

And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem 
with great joy: 

And were continually in the temple, praising and 
blessing God. Amen. — Luke 24 : 52, 53. 



[198] 



SUNDAY 



PRAYER 

MOST gracious God and Father, may my heart be 
filled with praise and joy that Jesus ascended into 
heaven, and that He sitteth on the right hand of 
God the Father Almighty. I am grateful that I can 
share in the gladness the disciples felt as they returned 
to their homes after receiving the Saviour's parting 
blessing. Grant that I may have the companionship 
and fellowship of the risen and ascended Lord, and that 
I may be continually praising Thee. In obedience to His 
command I would strive to make Him known, that others 
may receive Him as Christ, the Son of God. In His 
name. Amen. 



[199] 



Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process 
Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: August 2005 

PreservationTechnologiej 

A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVATIO 

1 1 1 Thomson Park Dnve 
Cranberry Township PA 16066 
(724)779-2111 



